Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub
AS the nation accelerates its push toward an export-driven economy aligned with Vision 2030, recent trade data reflects significant structural improvements resulting from the Second Republic’s transformation agenda, the national trade development and promotion body has said.
According to data released by ZimStat, cumulative export earnings for January–November 2025 totalled US$8.57 billion, a 27 percent increase from US$6.74 billion in the corresponding period in 2024.
This upward momentum has played a pivotal role in narrowing the national trade deficit, which decreased by 69 percent, falling from US$2.1 billion in 2024 to US$644 million. All this data signals a positive move toward a more balanced, export-led economy.
Notably, ZimTrade said in 2025, export performance in October and November set new monthly records, reaching US$1 billion each.
“These results not only surpassed expectations but also positioned the country among the leading export performers in the SADC region,” said ZimTrade in a recent update.
“Based on current trends, merchandise exports are expected to reach around US$9.12 billion by the end of the year, surpassing the national target of US$8.1 billion. This indicates that total exports will account for roughly 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s GDP in 2025.
“The performance reflects the growing strength of Zimbabwe’s productive sectors, the firming global demand for the country’s goods, and the deliberate shift towards value addition that the Second Republic continues to promote.”
ZimTrade said that as the national trade agency, it plays a key role in implementing initiatives to boost capacity and competitiveness.
The organisation said targeted market efforts are increasing sector participation in international trade.
“Notably, 2025 has seen significant growth in value-added exports, which increased by 29 percent from US$404 million between January and November 2024 to US$522 million during the same period in 2025,” said ZimTrade.
“The shift from raw commodities to products with higher levels of processing has become an essential part of Zimbabwe’s growth narrative, supporting better earnings, job creation, and long-term competitiveness.
“Additionally, this shift fosters product diversification, which is essential in a sustainable export-led economy, as it drives innovation and mitigates against global shocks, including price volatility.”
The trade development agency said services exports also grew significantly, totalling US$485.6 million, up 12 percent from US$434.1 million in 2024.
