Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) has defended the revision of the country’s February 2026 external trade figures, saying the adjustments were made in line with internationally accepted statistical practices after more complete export data became available.
In a statement, ZIMATAT director general Tafadzwa Bandama clarified that the February 2026 trade balance was revised from an initially reported surplus of US$46.5 million to a deficit of US$89.7 million.
“The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) wishes to clarify recent public commentary regarding revisions to the February 2026 External Trade Statistics.
ZIMSTAT confirms that the February 2026 trade balance was revised from a previously reported surplus of US$46.5 million to a deficit of US$89.7 million, as published in the March 2026 External Trade Statistics Release,” said Bandama.
She said the changes were reflected in the March 2026 External Trade Statistics Release following the receipt of updated administrative export data after the initial publication of the February estimates.
Consequently, said Bandama, export values were revised downward, resulting in the overall trade balance shifting from a surplus to a deficit position.
She explained that revisions to trade statistics are a normal outcome of the data compilation, verification and validation process used in compiling external trade figures worldwide.
The agency said the revisions were undertaken in accordance with international statistical standards outlined under the International Merchandise Trade Statistics: Concepts and Definitions 2010 (IMTS 2010) and the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM6).
“As provided for under the International Merchandise Trade Statistics: Concepts and Definitions 2010 (IMTS 2010) and the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM6), revisions are expected as more complete, accurate, and updated source data become available,” she said, adding that such revisions are undertaken to enhance the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of official statistics.
The agency added that the adjustments were necessary to improve the accuracy, consistency and reliability of official statistics.
ZIMSTAT urged users of official statistics to understand that revisions are standard international practice and are carried out in line with globally recognised procedures governing the compilation of external trade data.
The statistics agency also reaffirmed its commitment to producing credible, reliable and transparent official statistics that align with international best practice.
New Ziana
