Africa Moyo
ZIMBABWE’S drive to strengthen international economic partnerships is set to receive a boost in January next year when Japan dispatches a public-private trade mission to the country, in a move that aligns with the Second Republic’s engagement and re-engagement drive.
The mission, organised by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will visit Zimbabwe and Rwanda from January 9 to 16, 2027, to explore business opportunities for Japanese companies and deepen economic relations between Japan and Africa.
The initiative dovetails with President Mnangagwa’s “Zimbabwe is open for business” mantra and the country’s foreign policy thrust of “Friend to all and enemy to none”, which seeks to broaden international partnerships.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, applications are now open for Japanese companies and organisations wishing to participate in the mission.
The programme will include courtesy calls on senior Government officials, business forums, visits to local companies and relevant facilities, as well as networking opportunities with local businesses and other stakeholders.
The engagements are expected to help participating companies assess Zimbabwe’s business environment, identify potential partners and explore areas of mutual interest.
The mission forms part of Japan’s efforts to promote trade and investment between Japan and Africa, following commitments announced at the Fourth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) in 2008.
