ZimTrade explore more export prospects in Beira

 

Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter

ZIMTRADE — the national trade promotion body — is accelerating efforts and strategies to increase exports and strengthen economic ties with Mozambique by embarking on an Outward Trade Mission later this month.

ZimTrade recently conducted a comprehensive market survey in Beira to identify local products that can be exported to Mozambique in general, and to Beira, the country’s second-largest city, which is experiencing an economic boom.

ZimTrade’s eastern region manager, Mr Admire Jongwe said Mozambique is Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest export destination, with trade between the two countries increasing by 12 percent from US$345 million in 2019 to US$398 million in 2023.

“The Zimbabwean delegation to Mozambique will comprise export-ready companies from various sectors, including processed foods, horticulture, building and construction materials, agricultural inputs and implements, PPEs, leather products, and service sectors, among others.

“We aim to leverage the existing Beira Corridor to promote our quality products in Mozambique. ZimTrade has consistently conducted these trade missions annually. In 2024, an Outward Mission was conducted in Tete Province, resulting in local companies establishing productive distribution partnerships, with some even setting up operations within the country.

“The Trade Map data indicates that Zimbabwe’s exports to Mozambique have grown significantly, from US$354 million in 2019 to US$398 million in 2023, reflecting a notable 12 percent increase. Mozambique is Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest export destination. A bilateral trade agreement has been in place since 2005, allowing for duty-free trade with 25 percent local value addition. Both countries are members of the SADC Protocol, aimed at reducing trade barriers.

“Mozambique’s growing construction sector has driven demand for building materials, with Zimbabwe exporting US$5,5 million worth of steel and US$1,4 million worth of timber in 2023. There is also strong potential for fast-moving consumer goods like cereals. Mozambique imported 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s cereal exports as well as horticultural products such as tea, coffee, avocados, macadamia nuts, and pineapples,” said Mr Jongwe.

Zimbabwe and Mozambique enjoy a cordial relationship as neighbours, and increased trade between the two sister republics is expected to spur economic growth and improve the lives of their citizens.

Companies and entrepreneurs in Manicaland are well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunity presented by ZimTrade, given the province’s proximity to Mozambique.

This provides an ideal chance for them to push their products into the country and expand their markets.