KLM/MartinAir suspension affects Zimbabwe’s horticulture exports

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe’s horticulture industry is facing disruptions following the suspension of KLM/MartinAir flights to the country.

The airline’s decision, influenced by operational challenges and changing strategic priorities, is expected to impact exports to Europe, a key market for Zimbabwean produce.

The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has raised concerns about the move, warning of its potential consequences for the sector.

“The suspension of the KLM/MartinAir service to Harare is a matter of concern for Zimbabwe’s horticulture industry, a vital sector that contributes substantially to the nation’s economy through exports,” HDC stated.

For nearly three decades, KLM/MartinAir has been a major transporter of Zimbabwean horticultural products to Amsterdam, which serves as a gateway to European markets.

The absence of this service is likely to create logistical challenges for exporters, who depend on efficient and reliable transport to maintain the freshness of their products.

Zimbabwean exporters are already grappling with challenges in securing cargo space due to shifting EU carbon emission regulations and operational adjustments in airfreight services.

The situation has been made worse by a decline in the production of key export crops, including peas and flowers, during the 2022/23 season.

This has weakened Zimbabwe’s negotiating position for air cargo services, making it more difficult to secure space on alternative carriers.

According to HDC, “This led to KLM/MartinAir’s temporary reduction of flights to Harare in February 2024. Although flights were later reinstated, this served as a wake-up call for the industry.”

The council also highlighted the increasing cost burden on exporters, who must contend with rising taxes and regulatory expenses, further affecting their ability to compete in the global market.

Despite the setback, industry stakeholders remain hopeful that new solutions can be found. HDC has pointed to alternative routes through regional hubs in Ethiopia, Doha, and Dubai as potential options for maintaining access to European markets.

The industry is also engaging with government officials to discuss policy measures that could attract further investment and improve Zimbabwe’s standing in international trade.

Financial challenges in remitting foreign exchange have added another layer of difficulty. By July 2019, airlines were owed a total of USD 196 million in revenues, though state media reports indicate that 90% of this amount has since been paid.

Addressing these financial constraints is seen as crucial to ensuring that airlines remain confident in servicing Zimbabwean routes.

Zimbabwe’s horticultural sector remains an essential contributor to the country’s economy, with significant export volumes recorded in 2024.

The nation exported approximately 190,004 metric tons of fresh vegetables and 15,030 metric tons of fresh fruits to various markets, including South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Botswana.

The total market size of Zimbabwe’s fresh produce industry was valued at USD 2.19 billion in 2024.

 

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