In brief
ZimTrade has announced 17 Zimbabwean companies will attend the ninth edition of the China International Import Expo in Shanghai from Nov. 5–10, aiming to secure buyers and strengthen ties with China. The move follows China’s expanded zero‑tariff policy and a 51.6% rise in bilateral trade to $5.01 billion in 2026’s first nine months. Highlighted successes include Zimbabwean blueberries entering the Chinese market this year.
Zimbabwe has announced that 17 companies will travel to Shanghai to participate in the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE), scheduled for Nov. 5‑10, as stated by ZimTrade, the country’s national trade development and export promotion organization. The delegation represents horticulture, manufacturing, handicrafts, leather, construction, tourism, and e-commerce sectors, with the aim of attracting new buyers, establishing partnerships, and tapping China’s growing demand for imports.
The announcement comes after China implemented expanded zero‑tariff arrangements on May 1, which enable Zimbabwean firms to competitively introduce a broader range of products into the Asian market. ZimTrade emphasized that the event supports Zimbabwe’s goal of diversifying its export basket, bolstering its presence in China’s top three export destinations, and converting strengthened economic relations into sustainable business opportunities for local enterprises.
The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe reported that bilateral trade between the two countries rose to US$5.01 billion in the first nine months of 2026, a 51.6% increase year‑on‑year. While minerals and tobacco still dominate exports, Zimbabwe is pivoting toward processed agricultural products, manufactured goods, and value‑added exports. The zero‑tariff policy is expected to enhance the competitiveness of processed foods, branded agricultural products, finished leather, and arts and crafts.
Horticulture has gained particular attention, with macadamia nuts, citrus, avocado, and blueberries gaining market access pathways to China. According to ZimTrade, the successful entry of Zimbabwean blueberries this year demonstrates the commercial opportunities that can arise when improved market access is combined with export readiness and targeted market development. The first shipment of blueberries marks a notable step toward further diversification of the country’s agricultural exports.