Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
INVESTORS from Poland are exploring business opportunities in Zimbabwe with a focus on mining, agriculture, Information and Communication Technology(ICT), construction, manufacturing and the energy sectors of the economy.
More than 10 Polish companies are being represented at the Zimbabwe–Polish Chamber of Commerce Business Forum currently underway in Harare, where discussions are focused on strengthening bilateral trade and fostering economic cooperation.
The Polish delegation expressed optimism about investing in Zimbabwe, following the conclusion of trade and investment agreements with relevant regulatory authorities.
“There is a huge scope for further accelerating business ties with Poland, and this is mainly being driven by the desire to boost existing trade ties. The purpose of this visit is to explore what is in store for us as far as investing in Zimbabwe is concerned,” Dr Malgorzata Bonikowska, a member of the Polish business delegation said.
The Polish Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairperson, Mr Andrzej Szumowski, says the current state of trade ties favours both countries.
“We are interested in exploring sectoral partnerships or alliances in agriculture, irrigation, construction, and infrastructure development, among others. Our strong base and technological edge present a compelling opportunity for Zimbabwean firms seeking to scale operations and access markets,” he said.
“There is ample scope to diversify the existing trade mix and improve the current level of economic cooperation, therefore, this forum provides an opportunity or platform to facilitate direct dialogue and networking between Zimbabwean businesses and companies, fostering trust and confidence, as evidenced by the impressive attendance of companies from across Poland and Zimbabwe,” Ambassador of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria, His Excellency Jacek Chodorowicz noted.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ambassador Albert Chimbindi, who was represented by the Director for International Trade in the Ministry, Mr Kindon Gandanga reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support Polish investments in Zimbabwe.
“Trade between Zimbabwe and Poland is beginning to show signs of recovery despite the imposition of illegal sanctions by the EU. In 2023, Zimbabwe’s exports to Poland rose to US$938 000 from US$82 000 in 2022. Imports from Poland, including agricultural machinery and construction equipment, grew from US$37.5 million in 2022 to nearly US$49 million in 2023.
“Zimbabwe primarily exports raw materials such as tobacco, granite, and citrus fruits, while Poland’s exports to Zimbabwe are mainly tractors, agricultural tools, and wheat. There is ample scope to diversify this trade mix and improve the balance of trade, which is in favour of Poland,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Polish Chamber of Commerce Business Forum is being held at a time when the government has implemented ease-of-doing business reforms, such as a One-Stop Investment Services Centre, tariff rationalisation, and strong legal protections for investors, including the right to 100 percent repatriation of profits and capital.
