The Zimbabwe-China Avocado and Macadamia Buyers’ Engagement, a landmark trade event organized by ZimTrade, officially commenced today in Chipinge, marking a significant step in strengthening economic collaboration between the two nations. Running from April 8 to 10, 2025, the event brings together Zimbabwean producers and Chinese buyers to explore new export opportunities and solidify trade relations in the agricultural sector.
The engagement comes on the heels of a pivotal agreement signed at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), where Zimbabwe secured the Phytosanitary Protocol for exporting fresh avocados to China. This milestone has opened doors for Zimbabwean farmers to access one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets for high-quality agricultural products.
Allan Majuru, Chief Executive Officer of ZimTrade, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “China represents a massive opportunity for Zimbabwean agriculture. This mission will not only deepen our trade relations but also enable our producers to tap into a market with soaring demand for premium avocados and macadamias.” His sentiments were echoed by Similo Nkala, ZimTrade’s Director of Operations, who highlighted China’s shifting dietary trends toward healthier options as a key driver of this demand.
Over the next three days, participants will engage in a series of activities designed to foster meaningful business connections. The program includes a seminar and business-to-business networking sessions, where Zimbabwean producers will showcase their products to a delegation of Chinese buyers. This will be followed by visits to local farms and processing facilities, offering Chinese importers a firsthand look at Zimbabwe’s production capabilities and adherence to international quality standards.
The economic potential of this engagement is substantial. In 2023, China imported avocados worthChina imported US$151.2 million worth of avocados and US$22.7 million worth of macadamia nuts, with Zimbabwe contributing US$8.5 million to these figures. With China now ranking as Zimbabwe’s third-largest trading partner—up from 13th in 2019—this event is poised to further elevate bilateral trade and create long-term commercial partnerships.
ZimTrade has mobilized 70 companies from Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe’s hub for avocado and macadamia production, to participate in the mission. The delegation of Chinese buyers, alongside government officials and industry stakeholders, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Zimbabwe’s agricultural exports.
Admire Jongwe, ZimTrade’s Eastern Region Manager, expressed optimism about the event’s outcomes, noting, “This is a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. By connecting our producers with international buyers, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and increased competitiveness in global markets.”
As the event unfolds, the focus remains on knowledge exchange, with Zimbabwean producers gaining insights into Chinese market trends, logistics, and regulatory requirements. This alignment with international standards is expected to enhance the country’s export readiness and open new avenues for economic prosperity.
The Zimbabwe-China Avocado and Macadamia Buyers’ Engagement stands as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in driving agricultural innovation and trade expansion. With China’s appetite for these products showing no signs of slowing down, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to emerge as a key supplier in this lucrative market.
About ZimTrade
ZimTrade is Zimbabwe’s national trade development and promotion organization, dedicated to enhancing the country’s export capabilities and fostering sustainable economic growth through international trade partnerships.
This event marks a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s agricultural export journey, promising lasting benefits for producers, the economy, and the nation’s trade landscape.