SADC Evaluates Impact of Electronic Certification of Origin in Lusaka

Sixteen Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states have convened in Lusaka to evaluate the impact of the Electronic Certificate of Origin.

The two-day validation workshop by the SADC member countries on the Electronic Certificate of Origin is part of regional efforts to enhance customs trade and economic regional integration.

According to Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), the Electronic Certificate of Origin is designed to streamline trade, reduce paperwork, and lower costs.

The workshop provides a platform for stakeholders to assess the program’s impact and discuss strategies for effective implementation across member states.

Speaking during the official opening of the workshop, ZRA Commissioner General Commissioner General Dingani Banda said the Certificate of Origin symbolizes a commitment to embracing new responsibilities in trade as it improves trade efficiency and reducing costs.

Mr. Banda urged participants to work collaboratively to create a practical road-map for the seamless integration of the Certificate of Origin into trade practices.

“Together, we can enhance the pace of economic revolution within our region,” Mr. Banda stated.

Meanwhile, SADC Chairperson and Zimbabwe Revenue Authority Commissioner for Customs and Excise, Batisirai Chadzingwa encouraged member states to implement the Electronic Certificate of Origin framework and facilitate trade within SADC, while also engaging bilaterally to address any challenges.

And Senior Programme Officer for Customs from the SADC Secretariat, Alcides Monteiro, highlighted the program’s potential to drive economic growth through increased trade.

“Consolidation requires more economic growth, and the Certificate of Origin is the key to enhancing inter-SADC trade volumes, underscoring its importance in expediting trade processes,” Monteiro stated.