The long-awaited signing of a bilateral investment protection agreement (BIPA) between Zimbabwe and South Africa is expected to take place in Harare this week.

The conclusion of the agreement will help enhance trade between the two countries, and as such may help to support Zimbabwe’s economic recovery.

South African investors, worried about Zimbabwe's weak property rights, have insisted on the agreement before pouring in money to revive the country's shattered economy.

South African trade minister Rob Davies and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Elton Mangoma are scheduled to sign the deal in Harare on November 27, after which an investment seminar will be held.

In a statement released recently by the South African Department of Trade and Industry, the purpose of the seminar, which will be attended by more than 60 business people from South Africa, is to highlight trade and investment opportunities following the formation of a transitional government of national unity in Zimbabwe.

According to local press, a number of potential South African investors are eyeing Zimbabwe's mining sector.

The BIPA signing has been postponed several times after Zimbabwe objected to a clause in the accord referring to land investments.