By Archford Mabuka
ZimTrade is set to break new ground as it leads a delegation of Zimbabwean companies to the Middle East Natural & Organic Expo 2025, scheduled for 17–19 November at the Dubai World Trade Centre in the UAE. This premier trade event, held under the theme “Redefining Clean and Sustainable Living”, is the Middle East’s largest platform dedicated to organic and natural products. It brings together global suppliers, buyers, and health-conscious consumers, offering Zimbabwean exporters an exceptional opportunity to position their products in one of the fastest-growing niche markets worldwide.
Consumer demand for natural and organic products has increased significantly worldwide, with the GCC region leading the way in adopting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. The UAE, in particular, has become a hub for premium organic foods, beverages, cosmetics, and wellness products, making it a strategic entry point for Zimbabwean exporters. Participation in the Expo aligns with Zimbabwe’s strategy to diversify its exports and expand its presence in high-value international markets.
By showcasing Zimbabwe’s food and beverages, herbal teas, essential oils, natural cosmetics, and wellness products, ZimTrade aims to highlight the country’s potential as a trusted supplier of premium-quality, sustainable goods. This initiative complements government efforts to grow non-traditional exports and demonstrates Zimbabwe’s commitment to green, value-added trade.
Through its participation at the Expo, ZimTrade aims to promote Zimbabwean natural and organic products in the UAE and broader GCC markets, while creating export linkages that can translate into long-term distribution contracts for local producers.
The Expo will also provide a platform to showcase Zimbabwe’s competitive edge in sustainable and organic production, as well as to gather valuable market intelligence on consumer trends, standards, and emerging opportunities within the organic sector. At the same time, the initiative is expected to strengthen the visibility of Zimbabwe’s natural products brand in the Middle East, positioning the country as a reliable supplier of premium, health-focused products.
Ultimately, the mission is not just about generating orders but also about building enduring partnerships that will anchor Zimbabwean products in the region.
ZimTrade will coordinate the participation of eight export-ready SMEs and large enterprises drawn from across Zimbabwe’s natural and organic value chain. These firms have been selected based on their readiness to export and the uniqueness of their products. The selection process prioritised companies in strategic categories, including organic food and beverages, herbal teas and health drinks, essential oils and natural cosmetics, and organic herbal remedies and wellness products.
Participation at the Natural & Organic Expo Dubai 2025 is part of a broader ZimTrade strategy to expand Zimbabwe’s export footprint into emerging markets. As the Middle East shifts increasingly toward sustainable living, there is a substantial demand for products that combine authenticity, health benefits, and ethical production. Zimbabwe is well-positioned to respond to this trend, thanks to its diverse natural resources and growing pool of innovative exporters.
The Expo, therefore, provides an ideal platform to showcase the uniqueness of Zimbabwean products, from herbal teas rich in African heritage to essential oils and natural cosmetics that embody purity and wellness. By connecting local producers with international buyers, ZimTrade is paving the way for Zimbabwe to secure a strong position in the lucrative organic market.
As preparations intensify, the focus remains on ensuring that Zimbabwean companies not only participate but also succeed in converting opportunities into sustained export orders. With a combination of quality products, strategic positioning, and strong institutional support, Zimbabwe is ready to make a lasting impression in Dubai.
