Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
BUSINESSES in Zimbabwe have been urged to position themselves to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy, which opens duty-free access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
Addressing journalists ahead of the upcoming China Zero-Tariff Policy Conference slated for April 30, 2026, in Harare yesterday, the managing director of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, Mr Walter Chanaka, said the initiative presents unprecedented opportunities for local producers across various sectors.
“Our centre was established to serve as a strategic bridge between the people, businesses and the governments of China and Zimbabwe,” he said.
“For years, we have worked tirelessly to facilitate trade, investment and cultural exchange, ensuring that Zimbabwean enterprises can access the vast opportunities that the Chinese economy offers. Today, we take another bold step forward.”
Mr Chanaka said under the zero-tariff policy, China has granted preferential access to a wide range of products from African countries, including Zimbabwe, by eliminating tariffs on thousands of export items.
“This means that Zimbabwean goods — whether agricultural products, minerals, manufactured items, or value-added commodities — can now enter the Chinese market duty-free,” he said. “This is not just a policy; it is an open door to the world’s second-largest economy.”
The event, which is open to the public, targets exporters ranging from small-scale farmers to manufacturers and traders seeking to penetrate the Chinese market.
“Understanding policy is the first step to profit,” Mr Chanaka said. “Many Zimbabwean producers are unaware of how to meet Chinese standards, complete export documentation, connect with buyers, or leverage zero-tariff benefits. This workshop will simplify the entire process.”
The conference is being co-organised by the Chamber of Chinese Enterprises in Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre and is supported by the Embassy of China in Zimbabwe.
A representative of the Chamber of Chinese Enterprises in Zimbabwe, Mr Steve Ke Zhao, said the chamber plays a key role in strengthening business relations between the two countries through dialogue among enterprises.
He said the zero-tariff policy reflects China’s recognition of Africa’s growing economic potential and its need for expanded markets.
“With a population of 1.4 billion people, China represents a vast market that requires diverse products, particularly in the food and horticulture sectors”.
Mr Zhao noted that African products exported under the zero-tariff framework would enjoy price advantages over goods from other regions.
“For example, Zimbabwean oranges exported to China under zero tariffs would be significantly cheaper compared to similar products from countries like Brazil, making them more competitive,” he said.
Mr Zhao added that sectors such as horticulture, agriculture and agro-processing stand to benefit immensely, as China’s large population demands products such as fruits, dairy, grains and stock feed.
He encouraged Zimbabwean producers and associations to actively engage with trade facilitators to understand export requirements and access market linkages.
“We are ready to provide information, host workshops and connect businesses with Chinese markets. The opportunity is there, and the market is open,” Mr Zhao said.
He said more workshops would be organised in the future to ensure broader participation by stakeholders.
The zero-tariff policy is expected to boost Zimbabwe’s export earnings and strengthen bilateral trade ties with China as local producers move to tap into the vast Asian market.
Peter Tanyanyiwa