MASERU, Feb. 12 -- In its recent report, the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) has shown that Lesotho's trade balance continues to be a point of contention.

The report shows that in 2023, the country exported goods worth M15.3 billion while importing M31.7 billion, leading to a widening trade deficit. As a member of SACU, Lesotho heavily relies on revenue from the customs union, with a significant portion of its national budget derived from these receipts.

Lesotho has been critised for being the biggest consumer than the producer. While there are efforts by the government to change the status quo, there is seemingly a need for more concerted efforts not only from the government but also the private sector.

The shifts in regional tr...