Zimbabwean exporters are set to benefit from expanded access to the Chinese market following the introduction of China’s Zero Tariff Policy, a trade initiative designed to strengthen economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and China while boosting exports from local producers.

Speaking during a media briefing in Harare, Managing Director of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, Walter Chanaka, described the policy as a transformative opportunity for Zimbabwean businesses seeking entry into global value chains.

“It is my distinct honor to come before you today as the Managing Director of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre,” Chanaka said. “Our Centre was established to serve as a strategic bridge between the people, businesses, and governments of China and Zimbabwe.”

He said the organisation has worked for years to facilitate trade, investment and cultural exchange, helping Zimbabwean enterprises access opportunities within the Chinese economy.

Under the China Zero Tariff Policy, China has granted preferential market access to thousands of products originating from African countries, including Zimbabwe, by eliminating import duties.

“Zimbabwean goods, whether agricultural products, minerals, manufactured items, or value-added commodities, can now enter the Chinese market duty-free,” Chanaka said. “This is not just a policy; it is an open door to the world’s second-largest economy.”

Export opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses

The initiative is expected to unlock export opportunities for farmers, agro-processors, manufacturers and small-to-medium enterprises across Zimbabwe looking to expand into international markets.

To support local companies, the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre will host a China Zero Tariff Policy Conference on April 30 at the Celebration Centre’s Jubilee Hall in Harare, running from 9am to 12 noon.

“This event is open to the public and to all businesses who wish to export their products to China,” Chanaka said. “Whether you are a small-scale farmer, a processor, a manufacturer, or a trader, this conference is for you.”

Organisers say the workshop will focus on export readiness, Chinese quality standards, documentation processes, buyer connections and trade logistics.

“Understanding policy is the first step to profit,” Chanaka said. “Many Zimbabwean producers are unaware of how to meet Chinese standards, complete export documentation, connect with buyers, or leverage zero tariff benefits.”

Government and business support

The conference is being co-organised by the Chamber of Chinese Enterprises in Zimbabwe in collaboration with the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre and supported by the Embassy of China in Zimbabwe.

Chanaka said invitations had been extended to policymakers, business leaders and government officials, highlighting the national economic importance of strengthening export-led growth.

“This is your chance to engage directly with decision-makers and ask the tough questions about trade logistics, quality control, and market access,” he said.

“This is not a closed-door diplomatic meeting — it is a people’s economic opportunity,” he said. “Every Zimbabwean with an export-worthy product should mark April 30 on their calendar.”

He added: “Zero tariff is meaningless if Zimbabweans do not show up to claim it. Let us come together, learn, and launch our products into China.”