Digital trade regulatory integration: country profile Zimbabwe

Abstract

This profile reflects the findings of research undertaken as part of a training course on digital trade conducted by the African Trade Policy Centre of the Economic Commission for Africa. The study focused on digital services trade restrictions modelled on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development digital services trade restrictiveness index and measures relating to digital trade integration. The findings in this profile will assist member States in the negotiation and implementation processes of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Because of economic challenges, the economy of Zimbabwe has been virtually cashless for a decade and a half. Most transactions take place over the phone. Mobile Internet penetration has created a platform for digital trade, but as depicted in this study, digital trade regulation remains patchy and inadequate. Non-contact commerce has increased further during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.