The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa COMESA Business Council has expressed concern at the increased illicit trade in Zambia and its effects on business in the country and the region. 

COMESA Business Council CBC Chief Executive Officer, Teddy Soobramanien says the Council has noted the negative effects of illicit trade in the region and has come up with a robust regional tracking system to resolve the issue. 

Mr. Soobramanien adds that the CBC recognises the potential that Zambia has for trade facilitation in the COMESA community and that this can be achieved with a good business environment that supports private sector growth.

ZANIS reports that Speaking when he officiated  at the European Union Zambia Business Club Annual General Meeting in Lusaka , Mr Soobramanian said the CBC is working on enhancing the role of the private sector in local and regional integration for a unified African continental Free Trade Area.

And speaking at the same occasion, Ambassador of the European Union to Zambia and COMESA Karolina Stasiak said that the EU has committed 22 million Euros support to SMEs in the green economy promotion program aimed at building capacity for businesses in the sector.

Ms. Stasiak said the EU has been engaging with the Zambian government on improving the business environment in the country on issues that are affecting business in the country.

And newly elected President of the EU Zambia Business Club Michael Kroupnik said it is encouraging that Zambia has a government that is open to dialogue with the private sector and is willing to work together to improve the business environment of the country. 

Seven new members of the Business Club Board have been elected to lead the club for the next 5 years.