- September 13, 2025
- Posted by: Mambo
- Category: ZRA News
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) have officially relaunched the Electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) System, marking a major step forward in trade facilitation and digital transformation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
The event, held in Chipata, Eastern Province, was graced by government officials, customs leadership, private sector representatives, and stakeholders from both countries.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Eastern Province Permanent Secretary, Clement Chilembo, Provincial Assistant Secretary, Paul Benjamin Tole, described the relaunch as a milestone in regional trade modernization.
“This achievement demonstrates our leadership and commitment to trade facilitation through digital transformation. It builds confidence among exporters and importers that our customs processes are not barriers to trade but enablers of growth.”
And MRA Deputy Commissioner Facilitation, Chimwemwe Kawalewale noted the importance of the system in creating efficiency and transparency.
“The shift from paper to an electronic system is not just a technological upgrade; it is a strategic move towards enhancing efficiency, transparency and competitiveness in our trade practices. On behalf of the Commissioner General of MRA, we greatly express our appreciation to the Commissioner General and the entire Zambia Revenue Authority for organizing this colourful launch ceremony”, Mr. Kawalewale said.
Meanwhile, ZRA Commissioner – Customs Services, Ernest Sigande, emphasized Zambia’s leadership role in regional integration adding that eCoO system delivers real, tangible benefits, reduced costs of doing business, elimination of physical paperwork, and faster verification.
“It empowers exporters both big and small, drives industrial growth, creates jobs, and boosts revenue collection. Together, we are proving that Zambia is not just keeping pace with global trade transformation, we are leading it,” said Mr. Sigande.
