Trade swings into deficit as diamond exports drop

Diamonds exports fell by 40% in March, 2017
Diamonds exports fell by 40% in March, 2017

A steep decline in diamond exports led to the country’s trade balance recording a deficit of P215.2 million in March 2017.

This follows surpluses registered during January and February 2017 at values of P3.2 billion and P2.5 billion respectively.

International Merchandise Trade Statistics (IMTS) released on Tuesday by Statistics Botswana (SB) said the deficit was due to the significant decrease of 39.7% in total exports during the month under review.

Editor's Comment
Botswana at a critical juncture

While the political shift brings hope for change, it also places immense pressure on the new administration to deliver on its election promises in the face of serious economic challenges.On another level, newly appointed Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe’s grim assessment of the country’s finances adds urgency to the moment. The budget deficit, expected to be P8.7 billion, is now anticipated to be even higher due to underperforming diamond...

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