The Pandamatenga region in Botswana is rapidly transforming into a hub of agricultural innovation and investment. With the establishment of the Pandamatenga Special Economic Zone (SEZ), the area offers a unique blend of fertile lands, strategic location, and investor-friendly policies designed to attract agribusinesses and entrepreneurs.
Why Pandamatenga SEZ?
Located in the Chobe District, the Pandamatenga SEZ spans approximately 85,600 hectares, making it one of the largest agricultural zones in the country. The SEZ is strategically positioned near the borders of Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, providing easy access to regional markets. The zone is dedicated to enhancing agricultural production, processing, and export, with a focus on rain-fed crops like sorghum, maize, wheat, sunflower, and emerging cash crops such as safflower.
🏗️ Infrastructure Advancements: The New Grain Silos
A significant milestone in the SEZ’s development is the completion of 12 modern steel grain silos, increasing the total storage capacity from 30,000 metric tonnes to 90,000 metric tonnes. These state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with advanced features such as automated grain intake systems, pre-cleaning mechanisms, aeration and ventilation systems, and fire-fighting equipment. The silos are designed to store various crops, ensuring optimal preservation and reducing post-harvest losses.
💼 Investment Opportunities in Pandamatenga
Investors in the Pandamatenga SEZ benefit from a range of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives designed to enhance profitability and ease of doing business:
Fiscal Incentives
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Corporate Tax Benefits: A reduced corporate tax rate of 5% for the first 10 years, and 10% thereafter, compared to the national rate of 22%.
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Duty-Free Imports: Exemption from customs duties on the importation of raw materials, plant, equipment, and machinery for manufacturing purposes.
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VAT Exemptions: Zero-rated Value-Added Tax (VAT) on raw materials used for manufacturing goods intended for export.
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Property Tax Relief: Waiver on transfer duty for land and property acquisitions, and property tax exemption for the first five years of operation.
Non-Fiscal Incentives
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Land Access: Long-term renewable land leases of up to 99 years, with fast-tracked land allocation processes.
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Infrastructure Support: Provision of serviced land with access to essential utilities such as power, water, sanitation, and telecommunications. Seza
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One-Stop Service Centre: SEZA offers streamlined services including assistance with environmental assessments, building approvals, and utility connections, reducing bureaucratic delays. Seza
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Talent Development: A 200% tax allowance on training costs for local employees, promoting skill development and employment.
🤝 Government and Institutional Support
The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) plays a pivotal role in facilitating investments within the SEZ. Through the Botswana One Stop Service Centre (BOSSC), BITC assists investors with:
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Company and business registration.
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Trade and business license applications.
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Entry visas, work and residence permits.
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Connection of utilities (power, telecommunications, water).
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Access to industrial and commercial land.
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Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) compliance.
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Provision of information on Botswana’s business climate and investment opportunities.
Additionally, BITC offers an After-care programme to support existing investors in planning expansions, diversification, and reinvestment opportunities.
🌍 Opportunities for Agribusiness Players
The Pandamatenga SEZ presents a multitude of opportunities across the agricultural value chain:
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Processing: Establish facilities for processing crops like sorghum, maize, and sunflower into value-added products.
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Storage: Invest in modern storage solutions, including grain silos, to reduce post-harvest losses and maintain product quality.
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Export Services: Leverage the SEZ’s strategic location to access regional and international markets, facilitated by streamlined customs procedures.
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Value Chain Development: Engage in activities that enhance the entire agricultural value chain, from input supply to product distribution.
📢 Call to Action
The Pandamatenga SEZ stands as a testament to Botswana’s commitment to agricultural development and economic diversification. We invite investors, entrepreneurs, and agribusiness stakeholders to explore the vast opportunities within the SEZ. With robust government support, attractive incentives, and a strategic location, Pandamatenga is poised to become a cornerstone of agricultural excellence in the region.
For more information and investment inquiries, please contact:
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Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA): www.seza.co.bw
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Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC): www.bitc.co.bw
