SEVENTEEN ZIMBABWEAN companies will showcase their products and services at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai from 5-10 November, as the country steps up efforts to expand its export footprint in one of its largest trading markets.
The companies will participate in the ninth edition of the international trade exhibition, taking place at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai, where they will seek new buyers, establish business partnerships and explore opportunities presented by China’s growing demand for imported products.
ZimTrade will lead the delegation comprising businesses drawn from horticulture, manufacturing, handicrafts, leather, construction, tourism and e-commerce.
The exhibition comes at a time when Zimbabwean exporters are seeking to capitalise on China’s expanded zero-tariff arrangements, which have created opportunities for local businesses to competitively introduce a wider range of products into the Asian market.
The exhibition is expected to support Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to diversify its export basket, strengthen its presence in China and translate growing bilateral economic relations into sustainable business opportunities for local enterprises.
Zimbabwe’s participation also builds on the country’s strong bilateral relations with China, which has emerged as one of the top three destinations for Zimbabwean exports.
Bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$4,4 billion in 2025, representing a 15,2 percent increase from the previous year, reflecting the growing commercial ties between the two economies.
While minerals and tobacco continue to dominate Zimbabwe’s exports to China, attention is increasingly shifting towards opportunities for processed agricultural products, manufactured goods and other value-added exports.
The expanded zero-tariff arrangements are expected to strengthen the competitiveness of Zimbabwean products, particularly processed foods, branded agricultural products, finished leather goods, arts and crafts, and other products with potential to attract Chinese consumers.
Horticulture is among the sectors showing significant promise, with macadamia nuts, citrus, avocados and blueberries having secured market access pathways into China.
The successful entry of Zimbabwean blueberries into the Chinese market this year has demonstrated the commercial opportunities that can emerge when improved market access is complemented by export readiness and targeted market development.
Zimbabwe’s first commercial shipment of blueberries entered China in 2026, marking another important step in efforts to diversify agricultural exports and increase the country’s participation in high-value international markets.
The potential benefits of the expanded trade arrangements are already becoming evident across Africa.
During May and June 2026, the first two months following implementation of the expanded zero-tariff policy, China’s imports from Africa reached approximately US$28,72 billion, representing a 23,5 percent increase compared to the corresponding period last year.
Beyond agricultural products, Zimbabwe’s creative industries also present opportunities to penetrate the Chinese market.
Growing interest in Zimbabwean sculpture highlights the potential for locally produced handicrafts, artworks and products made from natural materials to attract buyers seeking authentic and distinctive African products.
Such opportunities could provide additional markets for Zimbabwean producers while supporting the development of higher-value export industries.
China has also been strengthening commercial linkages with African countries through platforms such as CIIE, the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and cross-border e-commerce channels.
These initiatives provide opportunities for African businesses to engage directly with buyers, understand market requirements and establish distribution networks, complementing the benefits of preferential tariff arrangements.
