Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, is currently on a working visit to Cape Town, South Africa, at the invitation of his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa.
The primary focus of the discussions is on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the areas of transport and logistics infrastructure, which are crucial for improving trade flows and regional development.
The two leaders are expected to address key issues such as the efficiency of border integration and the optimization of transport routes that facilitate bilateral trade.
One of the main points on the agenda is improving the N4 Corridor, a vital trade route linking the two countries, by enhancing the speed and efficiency of document processing at the Ressano Garcia border. Mozambique’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, highlighted yesterday the urgent need for systems integration to address delays that disrupt the logistics chain. Additionally, discussions are underway regarding the transformation of the Ponta do Ouro border crossing into a commercial point to further facilitate trade and economic activity between the nations.
The visit also aims to solidify strategic investments in the rail and port sectors. Over the past three years, rail cargo transportation in the Maputo Corridor has seen a significant increase, thanks to investments in infrastructure, including a $200 million expansion of the Port of Maputo’s container terminal. The strengthening of these transport links is expected to reduce operating costs, streamline trade, and boost bilateral trade and economic integration, with a particular emphasis on increasing South African investments in Mozambique’s port sector.