The president of the Association of European Entrepreneurs in Mozambican (EuroCam), Simone Santi, on Tuesday 27 August classified excessive bureaucracy and corruption as the main challenges facing the business sector, stressing that they affect business plans and hold back investment in the country.
In his speech, Santi said that European companies are interested in continuing to invest in Mozambique, but that there must be greater coordination with the private sector in order to improve measures and working conditions in various areas of the economy.
‘In recent years we have helped with ideas for better implementation of the Economic Acceleration Package (PAE), especially on the issue of visa exemptions. However, there are still many barriers, which is negative for entrepreneurs, causing them to give up and close their companies,’ he argued during a debate on “The Contribution of European Companies to Sustainable Urban Development in Mozambique: Challenges and Opportunities for Urbanisation in Mozambique”.
The session, which took place as part of the 59th Maputo International Trade Fair (FACIM), was attended by national and European businesspeople, including the European Union (EU) ambassador to Mozambique, Antonino Maggiore, who argued that the private sector is fundamental to the socio-economic development process and should always be active.
‘The EU supports the private sector and is available to work together, helping with concrete initiatives of interest. We currently have a structured dialogue with the government where we present our approaches in various business areas and how to attract more investment,’ he stressed.
The diplomat pointed out that Europe is the biggest investor in the country, and its companies are at the forefront in sectors such as energy, digitalisation, infrastructure, trade and others.
FACIM is taking place at the Ricatla International Fair and Exhibition Centre, located in the Marracuene district of Maputo province, and its theme is ‘Industrialisation: Innovation and Diversification of the National Economy’.
It will last seven days (from 26 August to 1 September) and will showcase the country’s potential for production and exports, as well as promoting business and investment opportunities in the various segments of economic activity.
“In recent years we’ve helped with ideas for better implementation of the Economic Acceleration Package (PAE), especially on the issue of visa exemptions.However, there are still many barriers, which is negative for entrepreneurs, causing them to give up and close their companies”
This year, 2,300 nationals and 650 foreigners from 25 countries around the world have been attracted, spread over more than ten pavilions and free spaces, and all economic sectors, associations, public and private companies are invited.
The fair is a platform for exchange and co-operation and will feature a range of activities including exhibitions, seminars, promotion sessions and contact exchanges.
Cleusia Chirindza
