SADC to fast-track finalisation of EPA
Friday, June 25, 2010
The agreement and other timelines associated with the EPA negotiations were approved during a two-day SADC-EPA Ministers' Meeting in Gaborone last Thursday and Friday.
Under the approved strategy, Trade Ministers from Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique and Angola have until September 2010 to conclude the various issues hindering the signing of an EPA.
The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...