COMMENT: Opportunity lies in what we can build together

WE are always delighted to see Zimbabwe making its mark on the international stage, striving to enhance the lives of its citizens.

In particular, we were charmed by President Mnangagwa’s recent address in Japan, where he laid the groundwork for Zimbabwe to leverage its trade relationship with Japan by diversifying its export portfolio and enhancing value-addition to raw materials.

Addressing Japanese and Zimbabwean business executives at the Zimbabwe Business Forum held on the sidelines of the World Expo 2025 on Tuesday, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is ready to engage investors, improve the ease of doing business, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and promote innovation.

The forum was attended by high-level officials and business delegates from both countries, signalling a concerted effort to boost economic co-operation and mutual growth.

The President reassured potential investors of Zimbabwe’s commitment to creating a stable and predictable business environment, with reforms in place to attract foreign investment.

Ever since his ascension to office in 2017, President Mnangagwa has implemented several significant reforms aimed at improving the country’s economic environment and governance.

The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (Zida) was established to streamline the investment process and provide a one-stop investment centre. This aims to make it easier for investors to navigate the regulatory environment and obtain necessary approvals.

President Mnangagwa’s address at the Zimbabwe Business Forum emphasised the country’s strategic advantages, including its location, skilled workforce, and natural resources, as key attractions for investors.

The President underscored the importance of strengthening trade relations to match the strong political ties between Zimbabwe and Japan, and he pointed to various sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing as areas ripe for collaboration.

“Zimbabwe imports vehicles and their accessories, machinery, mechanical appliances, reactors, and boilers from Japan.

“Our exports to Japan consist mainly of tobacco, raw hides, skins, and nickel. However, there is room for expansion of trade and investment between our two countries.

“This business forum presents an opportunity for our business enterprises to explore other areas for the mutual growth and development of our economies,” he said.

We liked this part of the President’s address because instead of exporting raw hides, skins, and nickel, Zimbabwe can invest in processing facilities to produce finished goods like leather products and refined metals.

This will increase the value of exports and create jobs locally.

Beyond tobacco, Zimbabwe can explore exporting other agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. This will cater to Japan’s demand for diverse and high-quality food products.

Zimbabwe’s rich natural and cultural heritage can attract Japanese tourists. Promoting tourism packages and establishing partnerships with Japanese travel agencies can boost this sector.

Collaborating with Japanese companies in technology and innovation can help Zimbabwe develop its tech sector. This includes areas like renewable energy, smart agriculture, and manufacturing technologies.

Leveraging Japanese expertise in infrastructure can help Zimbabwe improve its transport, energy, and communication networks. This will not only facilitate trade but also attract more foreign investment.

By focusing on these areas, Zimbabwe can strengthen its economic ties with Japan, leading to mutual growth and development. Like the President said: “We are here as businesspeople, entrepreneurs and leaders, who understand that opportunity lies not only in what exists today but in what we can build together.”