Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere
Herald Reporter
THE Indian embassy in Zimbabwe has reported a significant increase in inquiries and visits from Indian investors eager to explore business opportunities.
The encouraging trend was highlighted by Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar, following a recent courtesy call to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce permanent secretary Dr Thomas Utete Wushe.
Ambassador Kumar expressed his enthusiasm for enhancing bilateral trade and commerce, emphasising the presence of various Indian companies in Zimbabwe, including well-known names like Surface Wilmar and Varun Beverages, the producer of Pepsi, which have thrived in the local market.
He noted that these companies exemplify the potential for Indian investment in the region.
“The meeting with the Permanent Secretary was fundamentally about strengthening trade relations between our two countries,” Ambassador Kumar said.
“Last year, we welcomed a strong multi-sectoral Indian business delegation to Zimbabwe, and the interest from Indian companies continues to grow.”
He added that many Indian businesses, ranging from large corporations to small and medium enterprises, are successfully operating in Zimbabwe. Ambassador Kumar stressed the importance of creating a favourable environment to foster increased trade and commerce between India and Zimbabwe.
“Our consular office is becoming increasingly busy, with numerous Indian businesspeople expressing interest in investing here and others already conducting business,” he added.
“While I don’t have specific numbers, I can confirm that many Indian companies are actively engaged in the Zimbabwean market.”
The surge in interest coincides with the Government’s initiatives to revitalise some State entities and attract international partners, particularly from India.
These efforts aim to unlock substantial investments that could transform the national economy and enhance the country’s development.
Despite challenges faced by some under-performing companies, the Government is committed to maximising their potential to contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and achieving its vision of an empowered upper-middle-income economy.
The identification and revitalisation of these State enterprises are seen as crucial for national economic development.
Ambassador Kumar’s remarks reflect a shared optimism for the future of economic ties between India and Zimbabwe.
The growing interest from Indian investors signifies a promising step towards strengthening bilateral relations and fostering sustainable economic growth in Zimbabwe.
