Staff Reporter
The European Union (EU) has returned to the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) with a significantly enhanced presence, signalling a deepening of economic ties with Zimbabwe.
This year, the EU's exhibition is not only larger but also includes a wider representation from member states such as Sweden, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Romania under the #TeamEurope banner.
At the 2024 ZITF, the EU has launched the "EU WITH YOU, TINEMI, SILANI" campaign, focusing on promoting Green and Climate Smart Agriculture (GCSA) and Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE).
These initiatives align with the country's National Development Strategy (NDS1), which includes goals for more sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced roles for women in various sectors.
EU Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann expressed the Union’s commitment to support Zimbabwe’s economic development.
“The EU's Global Gateway initiative exemplifies our values-based approach to building trusted connections that benefit people and our planet. We aim to support Zimbabwe's efforts to improve productivity while minimising environmental impact and enhancing gender equality,” Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann.
Ambassador von Kirchmann said that the EU-Zimbabwe Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) is a cornerstone of this relationship, offering Zimbabwean companies the opportunity to export to the EU on a duty-free, quota-free basis and to modernise their industries by importing European machinery without duties.
According to Ambassador von Kirchmann, the EU stands as Zimbabwe’s fifth-largest trading partner and the premier destination for its horticultural exports.
At the ZITF, the EU stand serves as a hub for information on trade and investment opportunities, showcasing various EU-funded projects, and facilitating interactions between Zimbabwean and European business stakeholders.
Visitors can access detailed information on export requirements, agricultural machinery support, technical assistance, and lending facilities offered through the European Investment Bank.
According to Ambassador von Kirchmann, the European Investment Bank has already contributed significantly to Zimbabwe’s private sector by advancing €40 million in facilities to local banks over the past three years, with more support planned.
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to address Zimbabwe's debt issues, which have hindered access to sovereign lending.
Ambassador von Kirchmann underscored the EU’s role in fostering a conducive business environment.
"We are committed to working with Zimbabwe to promote investment, innovation, and inclusive growth. The European Investment Bank's support for the private sector, along with our role in Zimbabwe's governance initiatives, pave the way for the brighter economic future we all envision,” said Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann.
The EU’s robust presence at the 2024 ZITF underscores its commitment to accompanying Zimbabwe on its journey towards becoming an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
This partnership is dedicated to fostering sustainable and inclusive growth, benefiting both Zimbabwe and the European Union.
