Zimbabwe's exports to China reach US$1,36 billion
Zimbabwe's exports to China have surged to US$1.36 billion in 2025, driven largely by tobacco and a growing diversification into minerals and agricultural products. This growth is supported by China's 'Green Channel 2.0' initiative, which streamlines trade procedures for African goods.
Why it matters
The shift highlights Zimbabwe's progress in industrialization and value addition, while demonstrating the impact of China's targeted trade facilitation policies in Africa.
ZIMBABWE’s exports to China have rapidly multiplied from US$256 million in 2021 to US$1, 36 billion in 2025 signifying growing acceptance of locally manufactured good by the Asian nation, trade promotion agency Zimtrade has said.
Records show that much of this growth has been driven by tobacco and tobacco-related products, which remain Zimbabwe’s largest export category to China. Exports of tobacco products grew from US$255,8 million in 2021 to a peak of US$628 million in 2024, before recording US$562 million in 2025.
“The strong performance of the sector demonstrates the value of longstanding trade ties while also presenting opportunities for greater value addition and processing. At the same time, Zimbabwe’s export basket to China has become increasingly diversified.
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