Consultations with industry are shaping a national position aimed at expanding exports and industrial cooperation

Zimbabwe is negotiating and deepening trade agreements with China, intensifying efforts to widen market access, stimulate investment and establish frameworks for tariff reductions. The dialogue reflects Harare’s intention to strengthen economic ties with one of its key global partners while promoting long-term industrial development.

Experts underscored the importance of skills and technology transfer, value addition in mining, and the expansion of agro-processing capacity. As reported by The Herald, a TV BRICS partner.

The engagement builds on a longstanding partnership between the two countries. In 2024, relations were elevated to an “all-weather community with a shared future”, reinforcing collaboration across political, economic and security spheres. Trade performance has also accelerated: in 2025, turnover reached a record US$4.39 billion, with Zimbabwe posting a US$720 million surplus after exporting US$2.56 billion worth of goods and importing US$1.84 billion, largely machinery and technology.

Industry stakeholders noted that the planned agreement offers an opportunity to refine practical mechanisms that facilitate access for Zimbabwean producers. Contributions during the meetings focused on improving compliance procedures, upgrading infrastructure and encouraging investment partnerships that would help domestic firms scale up production and enhance competitiveness in the Chinese market.

The governments of Zimbabwe and People’s Republic of China have already signed a framework document to guide negotiations towards a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement for Shared Development. As discussions continue, the private sector expects the evolving architecture to support manufacturing growth, promote knowledge exchange and unlock new avenues for exporters.

African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS