Zimbabwean businesses have been closely watching the recent developments in South Africa and Nigeria, two of the continent’s largest economies after they were greylisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This global financial watchdog placed the countries on the grey list, which is reserved for nations that have fallen short in their efforts to tackle illicit financial flows.

This development has raised concerns about the impact on businesses that have dealings with South Africa and Nigeria. Zimbabwean businesses that engage in cross-border trade with these countries are particularly worried about the potential increase in transactional, administrative, and funding costs for banks.

The greylisting could also lead to capital and currency outflows, making it harder for Zimbabwean businesses to conduct business with South Africa and Nigeria. This comes at a time when Zimbabwe is grappling with a severe shortage of foreign currency, which has made it difficult for businesses to import raw materials and other essential supplies.

The FATF greylisting also scars the reputation of South Africa and Nigeria on the global stage, which could affect foreign investment and trade relations. This could have a knock-on effect on Zimbabwean businesses that have trade relations with South Africa and Nigeria.

Zimbabwean businesses that have trade relations with South Africa and Nigeria need to ensure that they comply with the new regulations put in place to tackle illicit financial flows. The greylisting will lead to increased monitoring of financial transactions between Zimbabwe and these two countries, which means that businesses need to be extra vigilant in their dealings with South Africa and Nigeria.

There are several steps that Zimbabwean businesses can take to mitigate the risks posed by the FATF greylisting. First, they need to ensure that they have adequate compliance procedures in place to detect and prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. This includes carrying out customer due diligence and risk assessments.

Second, businesses need to be aware of the increased monitoring of financial transactions and be prepared to provide additional documentation and information to banks and financial institutions. This may include providing details of the source of funds and the intended use of the funds.

Third, Zimbabwean businesses need to explore alternative markets and diversify their trade relations. This will help to reduce the reliance on South Africa and Nigeria and mitigate the risks posed by the FATF greylisting.

The FATF greylisting of South Africa and Nigeria has significant implications for Zimbabwean businesses that have trade relations with these countries. While the impact may not be immediate, Zimbabwean businesses need to take steps to ensure that they comply with the new regulations put in place to tackle illicit financial flows. This includes having adequate compliance procedures in place, being aware of increased monitoring of financial transactions, and exploring alternative markets. By taking these steps, Zimbabwean businesses can mitigate the risks posed by the FATF greylisting and continue to conduct business with South Africa and Nigeria.