China's zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing, effective May 1, is poised to bolster market linkages for Zimbabwean blueberry exporters, industry insiders have said during the Zimbabwe-China Horticulture Buyers Engagement, which concluded on Friday.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC), representing Zimbabwe's horticultural exporters, said it has been spearheading efforts to sign trade protocols with China for Zimbabwean commodities with strong export potential, particularly blueberries. In September 2025, Zimbabwe signed a trade agreement allowing fresh blueberry exports to China for the first time, a move expected to boost production in the southern African country.
Data from ZimTrade, the national trade development and promotion organization, showed that China presents massive opportunities for local exporters. The HDC said that it will help growers meet phytosanitary standards, including traceability and pest management.
"At the same time, we are looking to the government to accelerate the remaining regulatory processes so that these protocols can be fully operationalized, allowing Zimbabwe to take full advantage of the vast opportunities presented by the Chinese market," the HDC said.
Read more at Xinhua
