Zimbabwe is stepping up efforts to expand its footprint in global digital trade through closer cooperation with China’s rapidly growing e-commerce sector, as Government pursues industrialisation and export-led economic growth.
The drive follows a visit by Minister of Industry and Commerce Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu to the Anshan Cross-Border E-Commerce Pilot Zone Incubation Centre in China, a leading digital trade hub that uses technology and innovation to connect businesses to international markets.
Speaking after touring the facility, Minister Ndhlovu said Zimbabwe is committed to harnessing digital platforms to boost exports and strengthen the country’s integration into global value chains.
“Zimbabwe is determined to position itself within the global digital economy by ensuring that our producers, SMEs and exporters are connected to modern e-commerce platforms that open up international markets,” he said.
The initiative aligns with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which prioritise value addition, industrial modernisation and export market expansion.
The Anshan incubation centre offers digital marketing services, artificial intelligence-driven platforms, livestreaming facilities and training programmes designed to support cross-border trade and enhance global product visibility.
Officials at the centre said more than 3,000 participants have been trained in e-commerce operations, digital marketing and online product promotion. The centre also works with six Chinese universities to promote innovation and skills development in the digital economy.
Minister Ndhlovu said the centre’s model provides valuable lessons for Zimbabwe’s industrial transformation agenda.
“We have seen a model that combines training, technology and market access in a way that empowers businesses to compete globally. This is the kind of innovation that can support our national development priorities,” he said.
He added that Zimbabwe stands to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy by increasing exports of locally processed and value-added products.
“We welcome initiatives that enhance market access for developing economies. Zimbabwe is ready to take advantage of such opportunities to expand exports, particularly in value-added goods,” he said.
The Minister said Government will continue supporting initiatives that connect local manufacturers, SMEs and exporters to international e-commerce platforms in order to improve competitiveness and broaden market access.
Officials also said the Embassy of Zimbabwe in China will facilitate partnerships between Zimbabwean businesses and the Anshan incubation centre to strengthen participation in global digital markets.
The visit highlights Government’s commitment to innovation, digitalisation and technology-driven trade as key pillars of industrialisation, export growth and sustainable economic development.
