South Africa seeks to synchronise border systems with Mozambique
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the synchronisation of border systems and improved processing with Mozambique to speed the movement of goods and services between the two countries. Speaking at the Mozambique – South Africa Business Forum in Inhambane on 5 December 2025 during a two-day visit, he cited current border malfunctions and delays in processing lorries, urging adoption of a common system modelled on European practices and streamlined operations at key border posts.
Ramaphosa said efficiency gains could potentially double bilateral trade, warning that bureaucratic procedures deter investment and calling for harmonised procedures, costs and work along trade corridors. Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo highlighted the country’s geostrategic role as a gateway for South Africa to regional and international markets, underpinned by macroeconomic stability and an increasingly open investment climate, and pledged to implement facilitation measures. Both countries operate under AfCFTA and SADC frameworks and benefit from preferential trade regimes, with more efficient land borders typically supporting cross-border travel and regional connectivity.
Source: Club of Mozambique
