Online Reporter
Nduduzo Tshuma in Beijing, China
ZIMBABWE’S economy is on a steady upward trajectory with the Government attributing much of the momentum to deepening ties with China.
In an interview here on Monday afternoon, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira said Chinese investment has become one of the leading contributors to Zimbabwe’s GDP.
Prof Murwira is accompanying President Mnangagwa who is here for the 80th Anniversary of China’s Victory Day commemorations to be held at the Tiananmen Square on Wednesday.
On the sidelines of the celebrations, President Mnangagwa will hold bilateral talks with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping.
He will also hold high level meetings with business leaders with interests in Zimbabwe.
“Zimbabwe has an all-weather friendship with the People’s Republic of China, not only in words but in praxis,” Prof Murwira said.
“Chinese investment is one of the largest contributors to our economy. Our growth rate of six percent is in part driven by projects and partnerships with Chinese companies.”
Trade between the two countries reached US$2.3 billion in 2024, with Zimbabwe accounting for nearly US$1 billion in exports to China.
This trade, coupled with high-profile investments, has become a lifeline for Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and export diversification.
Among the flagship projects is the DINSON Iron and Steel Company’s steel plant in Manhize area of Chirumanzu, Midlands Province, a multibillion-dollar investment by Chinese interests that is set to become the largest steelworks in Africa.
The plant is expected to transform Zimbabwe into a regional hub for steel production, spurring growth in construction, energy and manufacturing.
