Zimbabwe is set to host its first-ever Zimbabwe-European Union Business Forum in May, bringing together 250 businesses from Zimbabwe and Europe to explore investment opportunities and strengthen economic ties.
The three-day forum, organised by the EU Delegation in Zimbabwe, will focus on key sectors driving Zimbabwe’s economic growth, including agriculture, renewable energy, and mining. Discussions will also cover financial services, transport, and logistics, essential areas for enhancing trade and investment.
The EU views Zimbabwe as a strategic trade hub in Southern Africa, with access to regional markets such as SADC, COMESA, and AfCFTA. The country’s vast mineral wealth and strong agricultural sector present significant opportunities for European investors.
“Zimbabwe is strategically located in Southern Africa, with access to a large and growing regional market (SADC, COMESA, AfCFTA), and contributing significantly to regional trade and connectivity. In addition, the country is rich in natural resources, including an abundant and diverse mineral resource base, thus providing a unique combination of attributes crucial in investment and trade potential for international businesses,” the EU stated.
Currently, annual trade between Zimbabwe and the EU stands at US$700 million, with Zimbabwe maintaining a trade surplus. The EU remains Zimbabwe’s fifth-largest trading partner and a top destination for its horticultural exports.
Despite Zimbabwe’s investment potential, concerns over policy consistency, particularly regarding currency stability and economic reforms, have affected investor confidence. The EU’s Head of Delegation in Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, emphasised that while the EU can facilitate business connections, Zimbabwe must implement investor-friendly policies.
“We as the EU are trying our best to bring the companies here, but the government has to do its part to make Zimbabwe as attractive as it is and to make entrepreneurs see Zimbabwe as a country full of opportunities,” von Kirchmann said.
The forum is expected to pave the way for increased trade and investment, fostering stronger economic partnerships between Zimbabwe and Europe.
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