Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE’S export earnings surged by 59 percent in the first quarter of the year, boosting foreign currency inflows and reinforcing the country’s shift towards an export-driven economy.
Latest figures from a Zimbabwe Trade Outlook Report show exports rising to over US$2.7 billion, up from US$1.7 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.
The growth is largely attributed to increased output and value addition in key sectors, particularly mining and agriculture, in line with Government’s beneficiation agenda.
The report indicates that Zimbabwe is on track to surpass US$10 billion in export receipts by year-end if the current momentum is sustained.
Business Studies lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, Nyasha Kaseke, said the upward trend signals progress towards national economic targets.
“This is what we have been yearning for for some time. If this trend continues, we are likely to achieve the set targets in terms of foreign currency earnings. What is now needed is for industry to explore strategic ways of boosting exports and fully reap the benefits,” said Dr Nyasha Kaseke, a Business Studies lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe.
The report further shows that the United Arab Emirates remains Zimbabwe’s top export destination, followed by China and South Africa, among others. Experts have, however, called for greater market diversification.
“By diversifying, we reduce the risks associated with relying on a few markets. This is imperative in addressing market linkage challenges. Going forward, Zimbabwe needs to expand trade with a broader regional and global community to stimulate production and maximise export returns,” said Dr Tendesai Mushamba, Chief Executive Officer of Global Business Achievers Private Limited.
Zimbabwe is targeting an annual growth of at least 10 percent in exports of goods and services, in line with the National Development Strategy Two objectives.
