A total of 17 Zimbabwean companies will showcase their products at the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, from 5 to 10 November, as the country seeks to expand exports and tap into growing opportunities in the Chinese market.
According to Zimtrade’s October 2026 newsletter, the expo would provide local companies with opportunities to identify buyers, establish partnerships and explore demand for Zimbabwean products.
“The exhibition is expected to support Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to diversify its export basket, strengthen its presence in China and translate growing bilateral economic relations into sustainable business opportunities for local enterprises,” ZimTrade said.
The participation comes as exporters seek to leverage China’s expanded zero-tariff arrangements, effective 1 May, to improve competitiveness and broaden access to the Asian market.
China has become one of Zimbabwe’s top three export destinations, with bilateral trade reaching US$5.01 billion in the first nine months of 2026, a 51.6% increase year-on-year, according to the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe.
While minerals and tobacco dominate exports, Zimbabwe is increasingly targeting processed agricultural products, manufactured goods and other value-added commodities. As such the trade body will lead businesses from horticulture, manufacturing, handicrafts, leather, construction, tourism and e-commerce at the exhibition.
The zero-tariff arrangements are expected to boost the competitiveness of processed foods, branded agricultural products, finished leather and handicrafts.
Horticulture presents significant opportunities, with macadamia nuts, citrus, avocados and blueberries having secured market access pathways to China.
“The successful entry of Zimbabwean blueberries into the Chinese market this year has demonstrated the commercial opportunities that can emerge when improved market access is complemented by export readiness and targeted market development,” ZimTrade said.
The country’s first blueberry shipment to China marked a significant step towards diversifying agricultural exports into high-value markets.
Zimbabwe’s stone sculptures and handicrafts also offer opportunities to attract Chinese buyers seeking authentic African products.
ZimTrade commended China’s efforts to strengthen commercial ties with African countries through platforms such as the CIIE, the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and cross-border e-commerce.
“These initiatives provide opportunities for African businesses to engage directly with buyers, understand market requirements and establish distribution networks, complementing the benefits of preferential tariff arrangements,” ZimTrade added.
