Gov�t tweaks exchange rate to boost exports

No Image

In a bid to get more value from diamond exports as well as contain the country’s import bill, government has made adjustments to the crawling peg exchange rate regime by reducing the weight of the South African rand in the basket of currencies that determine the value of the pula.

After the local currency gained value against all major currencies in 2016, monetary authorities have also moved to reduce the rate at which the pula gains value in an effort to maintain export competitiveness.

Acting permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Cornelius Dekop said effective from January 01, 2017, the weight of the rand in the pula basket of currencies has been reduced to 45% from 50%.

Editor's Comment
Gov't must guard against cadre deployment

As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up