By Annie Mulenga
Government says stronger collaboration with the private sector will be critical to translating the 24-hour economy into measurable economic growth.
Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary CRUSIVIA HICHIKUMBA says Government is ready to engage businesses on practical ways of implementing policies that support economic activity.
Speaking at the 24-Hour Economy Business Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Lusaka, Mr. HICHIKUMBA said the focus is on creating a competitive business environment, attracting investment and supporting enterprise expansion.
He said these efforts should lead to productive employment and greater participation of Zambian products in regional and global markets.
Meanwhile, the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry –ZACCI- has signed Memoranda of Understanding with the Zambia National Building Society –ZNBS- and Lupiya Financial Services.
The agreements are aimed at helping businesses access finance to support growth and expansion.
ZACCI President, represented by ANDREW SINYANGWE, said small and medium-sized enterprises need more than access to finance to grow.
Mr. SINYANGWE said access to markets, technology and infrastructure is equally important for SMEs to expand into larger and more competitive enterprises.
