Harare, (New Ziana) — Zimbabwe’s export capacity is set for a major boost following a pledge by China to grant zero-tariff access to all Zimbabwean goods, a landmark policy shift announced during the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.
Posting on the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) X handle, the Government said the removal of tariffs is expected to significantly strengthen the country’s foothold in the Chinese market at a time it already enjoys a US$1 billion annual trade surplus with Beijing.
“China has pledged zero tariffs on all Zimbabwean goods, a move expected to boost exports as Zimbabwe currently enjoys a US$1 billion annual trade surplus with Beijing. Announced during the 8th China International Import Expo in Shanghai, the policy is set to expand Zimbabwe’s access to the Chinese market,” it said.
Trade promotion body ZimTrade welcomed the development, saying the new regime will reduce entry barriers and enhance the competitiveness of Zimbabwean products in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
“This is a game-changing opportunity for our exporters. Lowering costs will make Zimbabwean goods more attractive and increase our market share in China,” it said.
The government said China remains Zimbabwe’s third-largest export destination, with trade between the two nations expanding rapidly over the past decade with Zimbabwe’s exports to China growing from US$766 million in 2015 to US$2.44 billion last year, driven largely by tobacco, minerals, steel alloys and macadamia nuts.
Imports from China also rose, reaching US$1.4 billion last year, mainly consisting of machinery and equipment critical for local industry, it said.
The zero-tariff policy is expected to open avenues for a wider range of products with new export protocols, including for blueberries, anticipated to diversify Zimbabwe’s export basket and deepen economic ties between Harare and Beijing.
Analysts say the development aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader strategy to expand non-traditional markets and boost foreign currency earnings, positioning exporters to take full advantage of China’s consumer demand and industrial needs.
New Ziana
