Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has emerged as a key player in SADC and a vital trade partner for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with bilateral trade between the two nations surpassing US$2 billion in 2024.
This achievement cements the UAE’s position as Zimbabwe’s second-largest trading partner.
Speaking at an event held during the UAE National Day celebrations recently, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to the UAE, Lovemore Mazemo, highlighted the growing significance of the partnership.
“Zimbabwean products are entering the UAE market, and we look forward to collaborating on food security and other sectors. I commend the appointment of Vijay Anand as a driving force behind the India-SADC Trade Commission,” Mazemo said.
Mazemo also highlighted that the expanding relationship between Zimbabwe and the UAE focuses on agriculture, mining, and energy, areas of mutual interest for both countries.
“Zimbabwean businesses are actively exploring opportunities in the UAE’s food and agriculture sectors, while Emirati investors have expressed keen interest in Zimbabwe’s lucrative gold and precious metals industries,” he said.
On the sidelines of the event, Vijay Anand, representing the India-Africa Trade Council, underscored the importance of Zimbabwe in the SADC region.
“Zimbabwe has proven itself to be a strong and reliable partner. The trade commission will prioritise creating avenues for Zimbabwean exporters while also opening doors for investments into its mining and agricultural sectors,” Anand said.
The launch of the India-SADC Trade Commission is expected to deepen economic collaboration between the involved regions, with Zimbabwe positioned to benefit from enhanced market access and investment inflows.
Experts note that this development aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to expand its international trade footprint, leveraging its natural resources and agricultural potential.
As the SADC region continues to attract global attention, Zimbabwe’s strategic initiatives and growing ties with partners such as the UAE demonstrate its commitment to economic growth and regional integration.
