Zimbabwe-China Trade Hits US$1.9 Billion in Five Months

Trade between Zimbabwe and China has surged to US$1.9 billion in the first five months of 2025, marking an impressive growth rate of more than 18% compared to the same period last year.

The figures were shared at the China-Zimbabwe Business Forum held in Harare on Tuesday, highlighting the strengthening trade partnership between the two nations. Zimbabwe’s exports to China rose by over 14%, contributing significantly to the total trade value.

Imports from China during the period exceeded US$600 million, reflecting a 29% increase.

Despite the rise in imports, Zimbabwe managed to record a trade surplus of over US$7 million—an outcome attributed to the government’s push for export-driven industrialisation under the Second Republic.

China has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic engagement with Zimbabwe. Mr. Steve Ke Zhao, CEO of the China-Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, noted that tobacco remains Zimbabwe’s top export to China, followed by horticultural products such as citrus fruits, which have seen rising demand.

“In the long run, both countries are poised to benefit from growing cooperation, which continues to unlock opportunities in sectors such as mining, energy, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing,” said Ke Zhao.

Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti, Permanent Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution, expressed appreciation for China’s continued support.

“The data shared today confirms the strengthening of bilateral ties and increased business activity. What’s important now is identifying more areas of mutual interest where we can expand or reinforce cooperation,” he said.

ZimTrade also confirmed that China remains among Zimbabwe’s top five global trading partners, underscoring the importance of the relationship in driving national economic growth.