Online Reporter
Judith Phiri,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE national trade development and promotion organisation, ZimTrade has reported that Zimbabwe’s trade performance is steadily improving, reflecting increasing economic resilience and opening up promising opportunities for businesses, especially in the mining, agro-processing, and manufacturing sectors.
In its latest newsletter, the organisation said Zimbabwe’s trade in the first half of 2025 reflects a promising note.
“The country witnessed exports surging by 11.4 percent to US$3.14 billion in the first five months, while the trade deficit narrowed by 12 percent to US$887 million,” said ZimTrade.
It, however, said some sectors, such as processed foods and pharmaceuticals, have recorded a downward trend.
ZimTrade said the standout performer remains Zimbabwe’s mining sector, which contributed a staggering US$2.51 billion taking up 80 percent of total exports which is a 17.4 percent increase from the same period in 2024.
“Gold exports nearly doubled, jumping from US$739 million to US$1.43 billion, driven by higher global prices and increased production. This reinforces Zimbabwe’s position as a key player in the global minerals market,” added the organisation.
“For businesses, this growth underscores the importance of investing in mining operations, refining, and export logistics to capitalise on sustained international demand.”
On the tobacco and leather sectors, it said that while raw tobacco exports declined by 12.8 percent, processed tobacco shipments rose by 22.9 percent, indicating progress in local value
addition.
ZimTrade said similarly, the hides and skins sector saw a remarkable 54.5 percent surge, though it remains dominated by raw exports.
“This presents a clear opportunity for businesses to expand into leather processing and finished goods manufacturing, which offer higher profit margins. With the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opening new markets, Zimbabwean firms must prioritise quality control, branding and supply chain efficiency to compete regionally.”
The organisation said the building and construction materials sector was another bright spot that saw 23 percent growth in construction material exports, including tiles and timber, fuelled by infrastructure demand in Southern Africa.
It said that as regional development projects accelerate, Zimbabwean manufacturers should focus on scaling production, improving standards and optimising logistics to secure a larger market share.
“ZimTrade is already capitalising on this opportunity by conducting building and construction services. Local businesses can take advantage of other
Promotional activities by ZimTrade within the region to expand to regional markets.”
On the arts and crafts sector, ZimTrade said it continues to shine, with arts and crafts exports increasing by 14.2 percent to US$5.9 million.
The organisation said Zimbabwe’s globally admired sculptural artistry and unique cultural heritage underpin this growth.
“Products such as zoological collectibles and original statuary contributed significantly. This sector not only offers foreign currency earnings but also promotes cultural diplomacy. ZimTrade is spearheading the expansion of artisan training and international market linkages through various clusters in the southern and eastern regions of the country,” added the organisation.
It said processed foods and pharmaceuticals were part of the sectors that did not fare well.
ZimTrade said processed food exports dropped by 25.2 percent, mainly due to declining sugar shipments, while similarly, pharmaceutical exports fell by 28.6 percent, highlighting gaps in local production capacity.
“To revive these sectors, businesses must invest in modern processing technologies, cost-efficient production and regional trade partnerships.”
In exports markets, the organisation said a striking development in 2025 was the United Arab Emirates (UAE) overtaking South Africa and China as Zimbabwe’s largest export destination, accounting for 46 percent of total exports (up from 29.5 percent).
It said this shift was largely due to gold sales, demonstrating the UAE’s growing role as a strategic trade partner.
“Meanwhile, exports to South Africa and China declined by 14.2 percent and 15.9 percent, respectively, signalling a need for market diversification. Notably, exports to the Netherlands more than doubled, suggesting untapped potential in Europe for horticulture and crafts,” said ZimTrade.
“Businesses should explore new trade agreements and marketing strategies in these emerging markets.”
