Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo [email protected]
ZIMBABWE’s export sector is entering 2026 on a stronger footing, driven by sustained policy support, improving production conditions and coordinated Government efforts, Zimtrade has said.
In its January newsletter, Zimtrade said the recent performance indicates that exports are playing an increasingly important role in supporting economic activity and strengthening the country’s external position.
The organisation said this direction is the result of deliberate policy choices under President Mnangagwa’s administration, where exports have been positioned as a central pillar of economic recovery, with emphasis placed on value addition, market access, and competitiveness.
“The approach by the Second Republic reflects an understanding that durable growth will be anchored in the country’s capacity to produce for external markets, generate foreign currency and progressively narrow the import-export gap,” reads the newsletter.
“A key component of this strategy has been the integration of economic objectives into foreign policy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade has continued to recalibrate Zimbabwe’s diplomatic engagements to prioritise trade outcomes, with embassies now expected to play a practical role in export development.
“Beyond political representation, diplomatic missions are being tasked with identifying buyers, facilitating business linkages and supporting access to production inputs, equipment and technology from host markets.”
Zimtrade said this shift signals a move towards more coordinated trade facilitation, where diplomacy supports production and production feeds into export growth.
For exporters, the trade facilitation organisation said that this approach reduces information asymmetries and shortens pathways to market entry.
“The external orientation is being reinforced by developments at home. Expectations of a good agricultural season, relative macroeconomic stability, and ongoing ease of doing business reforms are improving planning certainty for local businesses,” said Zimtrade.
According to ZimStat, cumulative export earnings for January to November 2025 reached US$8,57 billion, representing a 27 percent increase from US$6,74 billion recorded over the same period in 2024.
“Improved export performance contributed to a significant narrowing of the trade deficit, which declined by 69 percent from US$2,1 billion in 2024 to US$644 million in the period under review,” said the organisation.
“October 2025 marked a notable milestone, with exports reaching US$1 billion in a single month.”
“These figures point to growing traction in export performance and provide a platform on which planning for 2026 is proceeding, with attention shifting from recovery towards consolidation, diversification, and wider participation across the economy.”
Zimtrade said export development efforts in 2026 are placing increasing emphasis on broadening participation across the economy, ensuring that export growth supports inclusive development.
