SA, Tanzania to strengthen ties
4 April 2007
President Thabo Mbeki travels to Dar es Salaam on Wednesday to join Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete in presiding over the South Africa-Tanzania heads of state economic commission on Thursday.
The high-ranking delegation accompanying Mbeki comprises Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa, Agriculture Minister Lulama Xingwana, Transport Minister Jeff Radebe, Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica, Home Affairs Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Deputy Foreign Minister Aziz Pahad.
The commission will discuss progress on spatial development initiatives involving the two countries, a trade and investment co-operation agreement, and issues relating to agriculture, customs and revenue, immigration, transport and communication, and minerals and energy.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, South Africa is one of the top 10 countries investing in Tanzania, accounting for around 10% of total foreign investment in the country.
Between 1994 and 2005, South Africa was the second-largest source of foreign investment in Tanzania, injecting nearly R3.9-billion into the Tanzanian economy.
More than 100 South African companies are economically active in Tanzania.
However, according to the Department of Trade and Industry, trade between the two countries is still low, with South African exports to Tanzania increasing from just over R1.5-million in 2001 to R2.7-million in 2006, and imports from Tanzania increasing from a meagre R38 000 to R300 000.
South African exports to Tanzania are predominantly in the areas of manufacturing, including machinery, mechanical appliances, paper, rubber products, vehicles, iron and steel, as well as services and technology.
Mbeki is expected back in South Africa on Friday.
Source: BuaNews
