Zimbabwe-UK trade booms to USD 800M with new horticultural export scheme

ZIMBABWE – Trade between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom (UK) has surged to over USD 800 million, marking a 67% increase from 2022 to 2023, according to British Embassy development director and deputy ambassador Joanne Abbot.

This significant boost underscores a positive shift in trade relations, following years of strained political ties.

At the launch of the Monty’s and Central Association of Cooperative Union (CACU) Outgrower Scheme in Harare last Thursday, Abbot announced a promising new partnership aimed at expanding Zimbabwe’s horticultural exports.

“We want to keep increasing the trade rate. So, how do we keep increasing trade? Well, I’m delighted to announce a new project under the UK’s Trade Partnerships Programme,” Abbot said.

The Trade Partnerships Programme is designed to support Zimbabwean horticultural farmers and leading firms in boosting the production and export of high-value crops to UK and European markets.

Under the theme “Opportunities in the Field,” the scheme focuses on increasing trade by improving agricultural output and market access.

Abbot stressed the importance of including smallholder farmers in the export market. “It’s crucial for smallholder farmers to increase their involvement in agricultural exports. We are providing financial resources to help them overcome barriers and expand their participation,” she noted.

The initiative will offer advisory services on export quality and production standards and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in showcasing their products at trade fairs in Europe and the UK.

By implementing the hub-and-spoke model, the project aims to enable smallholders to export more effectively and boost their incomes.

The International Trade Centre, in collaboration with the Horticultural Development Council and ZimTrade, will oversee the implementation of this project.

The partnership is expected to further solidify trade relations between Zimbabwe and the UK, fostering economic growth and development in the region.

Historically, Zimbabwe’s top exports to the UK have included beverages, tobacco, and vegetables, while imports from the UK consist of specialized machinery and telecommunications equipment.

The recent boost in trade and the new horticultural scheme signals a promising future for Zimbabwean exports and the strengthening of economic ties with the UK.

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