Staff reporter
Zimbabwe is set to take a significant step towards strengthening its economic ties with India as it seeks to boost exports and reduce the growing trade imbalance between the two countries.
A high-level delegation, led by Vice President General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga, will represent Zimbabwe at the prestigious business conclave.
The delegation's primary goal is to explore new investment opportunities and promote Zimbabwean exports to India, which has become a key trading partner for the Southern African nations
Speaking ahead of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) India-Africa Business Conclave, scheduled for New Delhi from the 20th to the 22nd of August, Zimbabwe’s top envoy to India, Ambassador Stella Nkomo emphasized the importance of fostering deeper trade connections.
“The trade deficit between Zimbabwe and India has been widening, and it is imperative that we take decisive steps to address this imbalance.
“Our presence at the India-Africa Business Conclave signifies our commitment to increasing exports and ensuring that Zimbabwean products are recognized in the Indian markets,” said Ambassador Nkomo.
Ambassador Nkomo emphasized that Zimbabwe aims to leverage its abundant natural resources, such as gold, lithium, and valuable minerals, alongside agricultural products like tea, cotton, and horticultural produce, to boost exports and strengthen trade with India.
“Zimbabwe has vast potential to supply more than just raw materials. We want to position ourselves as a key exporter of processed goods and high-value products to India,” noted Ambassador Nkomo.
Additionally, Ambassador Nkomo highlighted India’s role in supporting Zimbabwe’s developmental goals through various capacity-building programs and technical collaborations.
“India and Zimbabwe share a deep bond of friendship that goes beyond trade. We have a shared history of cooperation, and we are optimistic that this partnership will continue to flourish,” added Nkomo.
Furthermore, Ambassador Nkomo indicated India’s role in supporting Zimbabwe’s developmental goals through various capacity-building programs and technical collaborations.
“As Zimbabwe looks to the future, strengthening trade with India is seen as a key component of the country’s economic revival strategy. The Government’s focus on increasing exports to India is expected to not only narrow the trade deficit but also create new employment opportunities and boost local industries.
“Over the years, Zimbabwe has been importing a wide range of goods from India, including machinery, pharmaceuticals, and vehicles, while exporting a much smaller volume of raw materials such as tobacco, ferrochrome, and diamonds,” Ambassador Nkomo concluded.
With high-level talks on the horizon and a renewed commitment to fostering stronger ties, Zimbabwe is determined to carve out a larger share of the Indian market, paving the way for mutual growth and prosperity between the two nations.
