Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere, Zimpapers Reporter
THE economic landscape in the country is witnessing notable progress in prices, availability of basic commodities, growth and stability, a report presented to Cabinet has shown.
Speaking after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the report on the state of prices and availability of basic commodities for the period from April 1 to August 31, 2025, details encouraging trends in the supply and pricing of essential goods such as mealie-meal, cooking oil and eggs, among others.
The report highlights that the current monetary and fiscal environment plays a critical role in maintaining consumer purchasing power.
With exchange rate stability and steady pricing, consumers are better positioned to afford the necessities of daily life.
This positive environment is not only beneficial for individual households but also serves as a foundation for broader economic growth, as it fosters confidence among consumers and businesses alike.
Dr Muswere said feedback from the business community reveals a renewed sense of optimism.
“The country continues to make good progress in economic growth and stability, and is moving the economy up the value chain and structural transformation pillars of the National Development Strategy 1, as reflected in the Report on State of Prices and Availability of Basic Commodities for the Period April 1 to August 31, 2025, which Cabinet considered.
“The report focused on 14 commodities, namely mealie-meal, laundry soap, cooking oil, bread, sugar, flour, rice, bath soap, washing powder, powdered/fresh milk, eggs, beef, chicken and salt,” said Dr Muswere.
“The current monetary and fiscal environment, which has been characterised by exchange rate stability, steady pricing and increased availability of basic commodities, is playing a critical role in preserving consumer purchasing power.
“Notably, feedback from the business community indicates a renewed sense of confidence, with several formal retail operators reporting increased sales volumes attributed to enhanced compliance, fair trading practices and improved market discipline, fostered by operations conducted by the Task Force on Business Malpractices.
Dr Muswere said retail outlets have responded positively to these developments, maintaining adequate stocks of basic commodities throughout the review period.
This availability stresses the effectiveness of Government initiatives aimed at enhancing market conditions and supporting the needs of consumers.
The collaboration between regulatory bodies and the business community has resulted in a more stable and predictable market environment, which is essential for long-term economic growth.
“This reflects a growing alignment between regulatory enforcement and private sector interests,” said Dr Muswere.
“During the review period, the official exchange rate was relatively stable. The task force on business malpractices has continued to carry out compliance and enforcement inspections across all provinces.
“These operations have led to the identification and confiscation of substandard products for destruction by authorities.
“Most retail outlets maintained adequate stocks of basic commodities during the review period,” said Dr Muswere.
