Story by Bruce Chahwanda
ZIMBABWE is positioning itself to unlock a billion-dollar chilli export industry, with plans to supply up to 50 000 tonnes annually to China driven by growing demand and strategic partnerships in the agriculture sector.
Agro-processing firm, Stagri-Brands, working with the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority and ZimTrade, is spearheading efforts to scale up production through an expansive out-grower model anchored on village business units.
The initiative aims to expand output to 35 000 village business units, tapping into Zimbabwe’s diverse ecological regions where chilli can be grown.
Interest in the sector has been buoyed by a recent visit by Chinese buyers to Stagri-Brands’ value-addition facility in Banket, where they signalled readiness to begin imports.
“We are excited with what we witnessed today, and most of our chillies come from India, but we are in love with Zimbabwe products because they are natural. There is huge potential for the local industry to meet our demands, so we are going to start with small shipments,” Chinese buyer Ms Aisha Guli said.
Zimbabwe’s chilli industry has the potential to generate up to US$300 million annually, with authorities emphasising the role of community-based production models.
“As ARDA, we are utilising the expansive village business units to grow chillies for exports. We have partnered with a company called Stagri-Brands to ensure we create value for our communities,” said ARDA Operations Director Mr Washington Katiyo.
He added that production capacity is underpinned by an established network of 35 000 village business units and 9 000 school business units, ensuring consistent supply.
ZimTrade CEO Mr Allan Majuru said the sector’s growth will depend on fast-tracking bilateral agreements with China.
“Production of chilli has a huge potential in Zimbabwe, and the availability of a huge market in China requires the expeditious implementation of the Trade Protocol on Chilli between the two countries,” he said.
Stagri-Brands says it is already laying the groundwork for large-scale exports, targeting 50 000 tonnes through an out-grower scheme involving up to 300 000 farmers.
“The demand for chilli is immediate… We are ready to supply 50 000 tonnes of the crop to China,” said Stagri Brands CEO, Mr Valentine Tapfumaneyi .
He added that ongoing investment in value addition infrastructure will be critical in creating employment and enhancing export value.
The global chilli market, valued at over US$7 billion, presents significant opportunities for Zimbabwe, with the anticipated trade protocol between Zimbabwe and China expected to unlock participation for hundreds of thousands of farmers across the country.
