Zimbabwe has completed all the requirements to benefit from duty-free access to the Chinese market for qualifying products, opening fresh export opportunities for local businesses.
In a statement, ZimTrade said Zimbabwean exporters can now obtain the required Certificate of Origin, enabling them to export eligible products to China.
“Zimbabwean exporter can now obtain a certificate of origin which enables them to export eligible products to China under preferential duty-free terms,” it said.
The trade promotion body said the development follows the completion of all administrative and procedural requirements for Zimbabwe to participate in China’s preferential trade arrangement for African countries, enhancing the competitiveness of local products in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
“This milestone opens up significant opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses to increase exports to one of the world’s largest consumer markets under the China-Africa preferential trade arrangement,” said ZimTrade.
Exports shipped to China on or after May 1 are eligible for retrospectively issued Certificates of Origin, allowing exporters who have already dispatched qualifying consignments to benefit from the duty-free facility.
ZimTrade urged exporters to apply for the certificates, which confirm eligibility for preferential tariff treatment under the arrangement.
The development is expected to boost exports by improving the price competitiveness of Zimbabwean products, particularly agricultural produce, horticultural products, manufactured goods and value-added products, while supporting Government’s export-led industrialisation strategy and efforts to diversify export markets.
Since May 1, China has extended zero-tariff treatment to all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations.
Zimbabwe is already beginning to tap into the expanded market. Earlier this month, the country made its first-ever shipment of blueberries to China following the signing of a market access protocol last year. Zimbabwe has also secured bilateral agreements allowing citrus and avocado exports to the Chinese market, creating new opportunities for the country’s horticulture sector.
