UK Diaspora to be engaged on export opportunities

THE enhancement of Zimbabwean exports to the United Kingdom and the development of supply networks will come under the spotlight on Friday in the UK during an engagement aimed at offering the diaspora community insights into Zimbabwe’s international trade policies and export strategies.

The Government has embarked on a strategic initiative of engagement and re-engagement, focused on re-establishing traditional economic relationships and exploring new avenues for trade and economic growth.

Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the UK, Col (Rtd) Christian Katsande said the event will feature presentations, keynote speeches, and discussions led by Zimbabwe’s trade promotion agency, ZimTrade, business people, and policymakers from Zimbabwe.

“The event will seek to highlight the linkages between local and international stakeholders, particularly the Diaspora community, in the distribution of Zimbabwean products and provide insights into Zimbabwe’s international trade policy and export strategy.

“It will provide strategic knowledge, practical skills, and high-level connections to help businesses grow internationally,” said Col Rtd Katsande in a statement.

He said insights into the ongoing initiative will be instrumental in creating a working model for a distribution network.

Posting on its X handle (formerly Twitter), Zimtrade said “We are thrilled to connect with Zimbabwe’s Embassy in the UK, working together to unlock new opportunities, & leverage the vibrant Zimbabwean diaspora!

“Also had great talks with the UK Department of Business and Trade on best options to boost trade between our two nations.”

Trade cooperation in goods and services between Harare and London has been on the rise, registering about US$185 million last year compared to 2022.

Statistics also show a jump in foreign direct investment from the UK while exports have also been rising.

Zimbabwe’s top five exports to the UK included beverages and tobacco, vegetables and fruit, jewellery, coffee, tea and cocoa and works of art.

From the UK, Zimbabwe imported specialised machinery, telecommunications and sound equipment, among others.

Relations between Zimbabwe and Britain were tense at the turn of the millennium when the former embarked on the deracialisation of land ownership through a historic land reform programme that empowered several Zimbabweans, much to the chagrin of the British, who imposed economic sanctions on Harare.

The once frosty relations between Zimbabwe and the UK have thawed significantly, owing to President Mnangagwa’s engagement and re-engagement drive.

It also comes as the British government has expressed keen interest in the normalisation of relations with Zimbabwe so that the two countries can relate more through exploring trade and investment opportunities for the mutual benefit of their people.