adminPrecious Manomano, Herald Reporter
Farmers have vowed to take advantage of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed between Zimbabwe and China for the export of avocados to the Asian economic powerhouse.
Recently, President Mnangagwa and his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping signed 17 agreements and memorandums of understanding across various sectors, which included the Protocol for Phytosanitary Requirements for the export of avocados to China.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary, Professor Obert Jiri said the avocado trade protocol with China will open a huge market for Zimbabwe farmers.
“We want to increase avocado production so that we increase our exports. We must produce more so that we cater for the large population in China so we want to target the 1,4 billion population market there.
“This year we also want to target to export over 6 000 tonnes. Exports should start as soon as possible. This is the opportunity for farmers to grab and enter into the business that has the potential to grow the country’s economy,” he said.
Prof Jiri indicated that the increased export opportunities will boost the local economy and increase income for farmers and also create employment in the agricultural sector.
Last year, Zimbabwe produced 125 000 tonnes of avocados, exporting to markets such as South Africa, United Kingdom and Netherlands.
About US$1,9 million was obtained last year from avocado exports. Prof Jiri indicated that they are projecting that avocado production will grow by 21 percent this year.
Manicaland farmers in Honde Valley, Burma Valley, Chimanimani and Chipinge hailed the latest agreement between Zimbabwe and China.
ZimTrade Eastern Region manager, Mr Admire Jongwe, said Zimbabwe will largely gain from the initiative adding that it will give a chance for Manicaland to satisfy the large Chinese market.
“The initiative is a game changer, as it will have multi-layer benefits for the country.
“New markets in China are likely to increase the export opportunities to China and other markets. We appreciate this arrangement because it is anticipated to greatly expand the avocado industry,” he said.
Chipinge Avocados Growers Association secretary, Mrs Dephin Mbanje said the initiative will attract more avocado farmers adding that the majority of small-scale farmers in Manicaland are geared to export on such platforms.
“Small-scale farmers are ready to export although they also produce for local consumption. The opportunity will also enable upcoming farmers to export directly and earn more money,” she said.
Zimbabwe is well placed geographically and climatically to produce fresh and pure produce because of its good soils, pristine water and good climatic conditions.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter