Staff Reporter

President Mnangagwa has underscored the government’s commitment to expanding Zimbabwe’s export market and improving infrastructure to support economic growth.

In a keynote address at the official opening of the Zimbabwe Export Week in Bulawayo today, the President emphasised that exports were central to economic development through foreign currency generation, increased productivity, and job creation.

“We are measured by how much we export. Zimbabwe’s exports had reached $4.56 billion for January-August 2024, marking a 1.8% increase from the previous year. Our exports have increased due to gains in agriculture and value-added products,” he noted.

President Mnangagwa also addressed Zimbabwe’s infrastructure improvements, particularly in transport and energy.

“We have transformed our road infrastructure because it is significant to have a reliable transport network for the smooth movement of goods and services. I also urge the private sector to collaborate with the government to expand solar and renewable energy projects as Zimbabwe works towards “greening our economy,” he added.

The President also spoke about Zimbabwe’s commitment to reducing non-tariff barriers and enhancing cross-border commerce, particularly within regional economic communities like SADC.

“The new electronic single window system adopted by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority will be piloted soon. This will reduce bureaucracy and enhance the efficient clearance of goods at our ports of entry,” he explained.

Discussing the future of Zimbabwe’s trade policies, President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of aligning the Zimbabwe National Export Strategy with global and local developments.

“This recalibration should aim to identify key areas for improvement, enhancing competitiveness and the ease of doing business,” he said.

President Mnangagwa also highlighted Zimbabwe’s chairmanship of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the country’s active role in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

“I encourage all exporters to leverage Zimbabwe’s diplomatic ties. Our exporters must take full advantage of the vested opportunities in countries where we have a diplomatic presence,” he noted.

He concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to openness and mutual benefit in trade relations.

“Let us harness the power of trade as a force to drive economic growth, fostering social development, and build bridges of peace and understanding between nations,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the event, rebranded as the Zimbabwe Export Week, aimed to bring together exporters and stakeholders to discuss strategies and opportunities for expanding Zimbabwe’s exports on the global stage.