Judith Phiri
Zimpapers Business Hub
ZIMBABWE will participate in the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) scheduled for next month in Shanghai, China, where it will exhibit a diversified range of products and services at one of the world’s largest import-focused trade platforms.
Zimbabwe first participated in CIIE at its inaugural edition in 2018.
Since its inception, Zimbabwe has regularly leveraged the event to showcase local goods and foster bilateral trade relations with China.
Slated for November 5 to 10, 2026, the country’s participation at this year’s event comes at an important point in Zimbabwe-China trade relations.
Bilateral trade reached US$4,4 billion in 2025, up 15,2 percent from the previous year.
In their latest newsletter update, ZimTrade said Zimbabwe’s exports to China stood at US$2,57 billion, against imports of US$1,83 billion, giving Zimbabwe a trade surplus of approximately US$740 million.
“CIIE therefore presents an opportunity to build on an already substantial trading relationship, while broadening the range of Zimbabwean products and services reaching the Chinese market.
“Zimbabwe’s participation at CIIE 2026 will bring together companies from sectors including horticulture and agriculture, processed and heritage-based foods, leather and leather products, arts and crafts, tobacco and services including e-commerce.
“The mix reflects a deliberate push to diversify Zimbabwe’s exports to China,” said ZimTrade.
“While minerals and tobacco remain significant, new opportunities are opening for agricultural, processed and value-added products. Agriculture is already demonstrating this potential.”
The country’s trade and export vehicle said Zimbabwe has secured market access for products including citrus, macadamia nuts, avocados and blueberries, opening pathways into China’s large consumer market.
ZimTrade said the country’s first commercial shipment of blueberries entered China in 2026, joining a growing range of African agricultural products taking advantage of improved market access.
