Zimbabwe Eyes Trade Opportunities in Asia, Middle East

By Post On Sunday

Bulawayo- Zimbabwe is actively seeking to expand its presence in the global market by exploring opportunities in the Middle East and Asia.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement following the successful hosting of Exporters Conference last week, ZimTrade Chief Executive Officer Allan Majuru highlighted the country’s focus on markets in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

“We are currently exploring opportunities in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

“Following our recent visit to Asia, we are in negotiations to enable local blueberry producers to supply over 180 stores in Thailand and Malaysia,” Majuru said.

He spoke on the growing demand for Zimbabwean blueberries in Asia, where they are praised for their sweet, floral, woody, and musky flavours.

 He also noted a significant increase in macadamia nut exports, which surged by 21 percent in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year, with China emerging as the largest export market.

“Macadamia nut exports have surged by 21 percent this year alone compared to last year.

“The recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) meeting resulted in the Chinese government committing to an economic partnership agreement that will allow Zimbabwean and other African goods to enter China duty-free.

“This will enhance our competitiveness and enable us to increase our exports to China,” Majuru explained.

In addition to Asia, Majuru mentioned efforts to export various local products to markets in France.

“Our sculptures reflect our resilience, identity, and creativity. We are also working on exporting pine and teak furniture, as well as windows and doors, to homes around the world.

“Renowned artists like Dominique Benhura have showcased the unique Zimbabwean story through their art, which can be found in airports across North America and at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, as well as in the residence of President Xi Jinping of China,” he added.

Majuru highlighted ZimTrade’s participation in numerous international trade fairs and outward seller missions in countries such as Malaysia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the United Arab Emirates, noting the positive reception in these markets.

 “This is a clear testament to the success of the government’s policy of economic diplomacy,” he said.

Furthermore, ZimTrade has signed protocols with China for the export of citrus and avocados and is exploring new markets in Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria, positioning Zimbabwe as a key player in intra-Africa trade, ZimTrade CEO said.

Majuru also reported an upward trend in the country’s export performance, with an eight percent increase from $7 billion to approximately $7.6 billion in 2023, surpassing the target of $7.2 billion.

He mentioned initiatives such as the Eagle Nest exporter incubator, the Next SHE exporter program, and the provincial export cluster program, which are fostering a new generation of global micro-multinationals ready to seize opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We recognise that the impact of trade on national development extends beyond mere numbers, it must also benefit women, youth, and rural communities.

“The Eagle’s Nest export incubator, the Next SHE exporter program, and the provincial export cluster program are paving the way for a new breed of global micro-multinationals ready to take advantage of opportunities in the AfCFTA,” Majuru said.