China’s Economic Strategy Opens New Trade and Inve...

China’s Economic Strategy Opens New Trade and Investment Prospects for Zimbabwe

Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a government work report at the opening meeting of the third session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

Monica Cheru in Beijing

China’s latest government report highlights ambitious economic and trade strategies, offering new opportunities for African nations, including Zimbabwe.

This came out in the report presented by Chinese premier Li Qiang in his report on the work of the government presented to the Third Session of the National People’s Congress this Wednesday, March 5.

“We expanded unilateral opening up, adopting zero tariffs on all products from all the least developed countries that have diplomatic relations with China,” said Premier Li.

The Two Sessions kicked off in Bejing this Tuesday and will last until (Chinese: 两会, Lianghui) is an annual gathering of China’s top political bodies: the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC.

Held in Beijing every March, the Two Sessions is one of the most important events in China’s political calendar. The NPC, often described as China’s parliament, is the highest legislative body, where nearly 3,000 delegates from across the country discuss and approve laws, budgets, and major policy decisions.

The CPPCC, on the other hand, is an advisory body comprising representatives from various political parties, industries, and ethnic groups, offering recommendations on national issues.

Together, these sessions provide a platform for outlining China’s policy priorities for the year, including economic goals, social reforms, and international strategies.

The world is watching to see developments during China’s all important Two Sessions to get the idea of how the second largest economy will go in 2025.

This is particularly key as global power dynamics shift and the United States seemed to be bent on triggering trade wars and as AI developments take over how we live our lives.

Speaking to the media after the report from the Standing Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference on Hongkong representative Mr Junius Ho said that China had already chosen Africa and Asia through the Belt and Road Initiative and Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and this means the west can be left to its own games.

As China expands its investment reach through BRI and FOCAC, and eases trade barriers for least-developed nations, Zimbabwe could benefit from increased exports, infrastructure funding, and technological partnerships.

At the Beijing FOCAC Summit, China reaffirmed its commitment to supporting African economies.

Measures such as zero tariffs on all imports from least-developed countries with diplomatic ties will provide Zimbabwean exporters with a competitive edge in accessing the Chinese market.

Zimbabwe’s mining sector, particularly its lithium industry, could see increased Chinese investment as Beijing pushes for a green energy transition and electric vehicle production.

Chinese firms have already invested in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, and further cooperation is likely as China enhances its industrial supply chains.

China’s economic stability is also significant for Zimbabwe. The 5% GDP growth and stable foreign exchange reserves ensure continued demand for Zimbabwean commodities such as tobacco, minerals, and agricultural products.

Additionally, China’s renewed emphasis on technological innovation and AI development presents potential collaboration areas, particularly in telecommunications and smart agriculture.

As Zimbabwe seeks to diversify its economy, aligning with China’s investment priorities in green energy, infrastructure, and digital technology could unlock new growth avenues.

With China’s continued engagement in Africa, Zimbabwe has a chance to leverage its strategic resources and emerging industries to strengthen its position in Sino-African relations.