Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, [email protected]
ZIMTRADE is participating at the 2026 Korea-Africa Business Forum as part of efforts to diversify Zimbabwe’s export markets and unlock new opportunities for local companies in the Asian market.
ZimTrade is Zimbabwe’s national trade development and promotion organisation mandated to promote the export of local goods and services while assisting businesses to access international markets.
The trade promotion body said the forum presents a strategic platform to strengthen commercial linkages between Zimbabwean exporters and Korean buyers, while also enhancing the country’s visibility in one of Asia’s advanced and innovation-driven economies.
In an update, ZimTrade said engagements at the forum are centred on sectors where Zimbabwe has established competitive advantages, particularly in value addition and natural products.
“We are participating at the 2026 Korea-Africa Business Forum to advance Zimbabwe’s market diversification efforts and identify opportunities for local companies in the Korean market.
“Engagements with buyers and industry stakeholders on the sidelines of the Forum are focused on sectors where Zimbabwe has competitive strengths, including value-added products, essential oils, and natural herbs, spices and other ingredients.
“The Forum also offers an opportunity to better understand the standards, preferences, and innovation shaping Korea’s consumer and manufacturing sectors.
“Encouragingly, buyers already sourcing from Africa, particularly Southern Africa, have highlighted their awareness of the quality associated with Zimbabwean products and their interest in exploring potential supply relationships.”
ZimTrade said the positive reception from Korean buyers reflects growing international recognition of Zimbabwean products, particularly in niche and premium export segments.
The trade promotion agency noted that increased participation in international trade platforms was critical in broadening Zimbabwe’s export footprint and positioning local enterprises to tap into emerging global value chains.
“Such engagements are important building blocks in expanding Zimbabwe’s export footprint and creating sustainable pathways for local enterprises to participate in international trade.”
Zimbabwe has in recent years intensified efforts to diversify export destinations beyond traditional markets as part of broader economic transformation and industrialisation strategies anchored on value addition and beneficiation.
Penetrating the Korean market could unlock significant opportunities for Zimbabwean exporters, especially in agro-processing, natural wellness products and specialised ingredients, sectors that are witnessing growing demand globally.
The Korea-Africa Business Forum brings together policymakers, investors, manufacturers, buyers and trade promotion agencies to explore investment, trade and industrial collaboration opportunities between African countries and South Korea.
