The signing of the Zimbabwe–China blueberry export protocol has been described as a historic milestone for the country’s agriculture sector, with significant benefits for young farmers and the national economy.
Zimbabwe Young Farmers for Sustainable Development (ZiYFA-SD) President Joseph Kakoto said the agreement opens a new chapter for the country’s horticultural exports and provides direct access to one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing consumer markets.
“This agreement creates new market access. Farmers, including youth and women, can now export blueberries directly into China,” he said.
Kakoto said the protocol offers new opportunities for youth-led agribusinesses to venture into high-value horticulture, generate foreign currency, and build sustainable livelihoods.
“Beyond exports, the protocol is expected to stimulate investment growth in infrastructure such as packhouses, cold chain facilities, and plantations developments that will generate jobs along the value chain.This is diversification in action. Zimbabwe is showing the world that we are moving beyond traditional exports like tobacco and maize into high-value niche crops,” he said.
Commenting on Zimbabwe’s prospects in the Chinese market, Kakoto expressed confidence.
“China’s massive and steadily growing middle class is demanding healthy, premium foods such as blueberries. Zimbabwe’s unique climate and soils make it well-positioned to produce premium-quality berries.With proper organisation, youth participation, and government support, Zimbabwean farmers can become reliable suppliers to China. This is our chance to claim a competitive edge,” he said.
He described China as a strategically important market for Zimbabwean produce.
“It provides a ready export destination, diversifies our trading partners, and stimulates local production by creating guaranteed international demand.It also strengthens Zimbabwe–China relations by aligning agriculture with broader economic cooperation.In short, this protocol is a win-win. Zimbabwe gains access to a lucrative market, while China secures reliable food imports. For young farmers, it represents an entry point into global agribusiness,” he said.
Kakoto said the agreement reflects a growing vision among Zimbabwean youth to transform agriculture into a pathway for prosperity through international partnerships and modern agribusiness opportunities.
