Products Imported from China to Zimbabwe

In the calendar year of 2023, China exported goods worth US$1.24 billion to Zimbabwe. Among the main exports from China to Zimbabwe were Stone Processing Machines (US$102 million), Delivery Trucks (US$57 million), Electrical Transformers (US$54.7 million), Large Construction Vehicles (US$50.96 million) and Rubber Tires (US$35.04 million). Over the span of 28 years, China’s exports to Zimbabwe have grown steadily at an annualized rate of 14.6%, rising from US$31.2 million in 1995 to US$1.24 billion in 2023.

List of All Products That Were Imported from China to Zimbabwe

The table below presents a comprehensive list of all commodities that were exported from China to Zimbabwe in 2023, categorized by product types, and ranked by their trade values in US dollars.

Tips to use this table

1. Identifying High-Demand Products: Analyze the top-ranked products to identify which items have the highest trade values. These products are likely to be in high demand in the Zimbabwe market, presenting lucrative opportunities for importers and resellers.
2. Niche Market Exploration: Explore products with significant trade values that may not be commonly known. These niche products could represent untapped market segments with less competition, allowing resellers and importers to carve out a unique position in the market.

Last Updated: April, 2024

Note #1: The HS4 code, or Harmonized System 4-digit code, is part of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS). It’s an internationally standardized system for classifying goods in international trade.

Note #2: This table is regularly updated on an annual basis. Therefore, we encourage you to revisit frequently to access the latest information regarding trade between China and Zimbabwe.

Trade Agreements between China and Zimbabwe

China and Zimbabwe have forged a strong economic and political alliance since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. This relationship has been further cemented through various bilateral agreements and cooperation frameworks, which primarily focus on investment, infrastructure development, and financial support. Although these are not strictly trade agreements, they significantly influence trade dynamics between the two countries by creating an enabling environment for business and commerce. Here’s a detailed look at the nature of the relationship between China and Zimbabwe:

1. Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreements

China and Zimbabwe have signed several economic and technical cooperation agreements over the years. These agreements typically involve Chinese grants and concessional loans that fund infrastructure projects across Zimbabwe. Such projects include road construction, airport upgrades, and power generation facilities, which are vital for improving Zimbabwe’s trade capacity and economic stability.

2. Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)

Zimbabwe benefits from its participation in FOCAC, where it gains access to Chinese funding for development projects. Through FOCAC, Zimbabwe has secured financial support for agriculture, education, and health sectors, which, while not direct trade agreements, indirectly enhance Zimbabwe’s trade capabilities by strengthening its economic infrastructure.

3. Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

China has been instrumental in developing Special Economic Zones in Zimbabwe. These zones are designed to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate economic growth through enhanced trade and industrial activity. SEZs offer incentives such as tax breaks and simplified customs procedures, making them attractive to Chinese investors and significantly boosting bilateral trade.

4. Mining and Resource Agreements

China’s investment in Zimbabwe’s mining sector is a critical aspect of their economic relations. Chinese companies are involved in extracting minerals like gold, diamonds, and especially platinum. While these arrangements are often framed as investment initiatives, they have a profound impact on trade as these resources are primarily exported to China.

5. Agricultural Development

China supports Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector through technology transfer and the provision of agricultural machinery and inputs. This support enhances Zimbabwe’s agricultural productivity and export potential, particularly in tobacco and cotton industries, which are major export commodities to China.

6. Debt Relief and Financial Assistance

China has provided debt relief to Zimbabwe, which helps stabilize the country’s financial situation and allows more resources to be allocated towards developmental and trade-enhancing projects. Financial assistance from China also includes support in times of economic hardships, such as during periods of hyperinflation or drought.

7. Cultural and Educational Exchanges

The relationship is also supported by cultural and educational exchanges, including scholarships for Zimbabwean students to study in China. These programs build goodwill and understanding, fostering a conducive environment for ongoing economic cooperation and trade.

8. Healthcare Cooperation

During health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, China has supplied Zimbabwe with medical supplies and vaccines. This kind of support is crucial for maintaining public health and economic stability, indirectly supporting continued trade and economic activities.