The 59th edition of the Maputo International Trade Fair (FACIM) focused on exploring the potential of development corridors as one of its key themes. FACIM is recognized as Mozambique’s most sizeable trade and investment exhibition event. It ran from August 26 to September 1.

Octávio Zefanias, the event’s director, announced the implementation of an exclusive pavilion dedicated to development corridors. The space served as a central meeting point to highlight the logistical opportunities, port services, and regional connections facilitated by these strategic corridors.

APAMO engaged in FACIM, marking a significant milestone for us. The opportunity allowed us to showcase our dedication to advancing our industry, connect with key stakeholders, and gain valuable insights to drive our initiatives forward. The engagement with a diverse range of professionals and innovators at FACIM aligns with our commitment to fostering growth and collaboration within our field.

We enjoyed the enriching experiences and connections the event brought, reinforcing our mission to lead and support our community.

In addition, this year’s edition focused on industrialization, a key pillar in the current government agenda. During the event, the National Industrialization Programme (PRONAI) was presented, emphasizing the direct investments, both domestic and foreign, that are shaping the Mozambican industrial landscape.

The pavilion dedicated to Africa was another point of interest, where the business community was informed about the emerging opportunities resulting from the opening of borders, as outlined in the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement recently ratified by Mozambique.Apamo participates in the 59th Edition of Feira Internacional de Maputo – FACIM 2024

New labour law into effect

The Council of Ministers is reassessing the new labour law after identifying inaccuracies by the APAMO Human Resource Committee and CTA. Article 46 is part of the revision, but other articles need revision, particularly regarding employer obligations for disciplinary dismissed workers’ return journeys.

 

FIRST SESSION OF THE NATIONAL TRADE FACILITATION COMMITTEE -(CONFAC)

APAMO was invited to participate in CONFAC’s first technical session to coordinate Mozambique’s involvement in the Technical Committee of Sugar (TCS) on March 11-12, 2024. The National Director of External Trade emphasized the need to address scanning and electronic sealing charges for sugar in transit. The SADC Secretariat’s visit was postponed, and the Ministry of Transport and Communications announced a task force financed by the World Bank to expedite border processing between South Africa and Mozambique.

 

Amendments to the 1992 international sugar agreement

The International Sugar Agreement, in force since 1993, is being revised, with the Mozambican industry contributing to the process. The primary objective is to strengthen international cooperation on sugar, improve the world economy, and facilitate trade. APAMO, a member of the International Sugar Organization, has been invited to assess the proposed amendment and make comments.

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New chairwoman
On the 10th of May we welcomed our new Madame Chairwoman, Mrs. Sonia Matsinhe. It is with great honor we welcomed the new chairwoman who with the recommendation from Tongaat Hulett is ready to lead us to great heights.

The Cuban delegation visits Mozambique
The Cuban delegation visited Mozambique to strengthen cooperation in the food sector and food security. The Cuban delegation, led by Cuban deputy minister for the food industry and fisheries Midalys Blanco met with Mozambican officials to discuss issues of mutual interest, particularly food safety and sovereignty.

Revision of Decree 9/2016s, CONFAM TALKS
The national food fortification committee of Mozambique has revised decree 9/2016, which regulates food fortification with industrially processed micronutrients. The revision aims to improve the coverage and benefit incidence of fortified foods in Mozambique focusing on reducing micronutrients deficiencies, increasing the supply of high-quality fortified products.

Request to exclude sugar from the tariff offer from the AfCFTA

APAMO sent a request to the African Continental Free Trade Area asking that sugar be excluded from the tariff offer and that it be moved from classification D to C.
The essential need to diversify by-products in Mozambique
Sustainable practices are important and one way to do so is by diversifying by-products to ensure that one product does not fall under heavy use.

Crush season starts açucareira de xinavane and Mafambisse
Açucareira de Xinavane and Mafambisse are preparing for the 2024/2025 crushing season, with Açucareira de Xinavane aiming to process 1,434,389 tons of sugarcane and Mafambisse processing 346,643 tons, resulting in 39,166 tons of sugar. Despite El Nino impact, the campaign spans 30 weeks. Read more

 

Business rescue professionals announced on January 1st that creditors voted in favor of vision parties business recovery plan. This is positive news for Tongaat hulett employees, businesses and stakeholders in all geographies.

Maragra recovery process
The MARAGRA rehabilitation project is moving forward, with drainage and protection infrastructure repairs and field plantings. Contractors are working on civil works, and 200 contract workers are on-site. The first phase was supposed to span 7000 hectares, but water levels had decreased. The second phase, anticipated for February/March 2024, will include nursery cultivation and mechanized planting. The planting plan includes 3500 ha in 2025 and 1700 ha in 2026. Private sugarcane farmers require financial assistance from support programs.

APAMO events and meetings

The Mozambican Sugar Industry participated in the Council of State Representation Services Retreat on December 8th, highlighting the issue of illegal import and sugar smuggling. The Provincial Government promised support and a matrix of actions for DNA, Mills, and APAMO. The ISO Council set a contribution per vote of £780 for the 2024 administrative budget, with 6 votes allocated to Mozambique. The government is requested to remit £4,680 to the ISO bank account. READ MORE:

VAT EXEMPTION PRESS RELEASE
Law No. 16/2020 temporarily exempted sugar transmissions from VAT until December 31, 2023. Despite industry lobbying, the Minister of Economy and Finance did not extend the exemption period. The Tax Authority announced that transactions involving these goods and services will now be subject to 16% VAT, effective January 1, 2024. Taxpayers must immediately pay VAT on existing and future stock

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