Export Growth Declared a National Economic Priority

By Andile Vundla

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged local exporters to view export-oriented production as a national economic imperative, saying it is central to the country’s growth under National Development Strategy Two (NDS2).

Speaking at the ZimTrade Exporters Conference on Friday in Bulawayo, the President emphasized that “export-oriented production and competitiveness can no longer be merely a commercial strategy, but must now be a national economic imperative.”

He highlighted the role of exporters in driving foreign currency growth, industrial maturity, and job creation, calling them “a key cog to the ongoing economic growth trajectory.”

President Mnangagwa outlined that NDS2 focuses on producing, processing, and adding value locally to boost industrialisation and economic resilience. “The value must be created here, in our factories, processing plants, innovation hubs, and communities,” he said.

Mnangagwa also stressed collaboration between government, regulators, and industry stakeholders to diversify Zimbabwe’s industrial base and expand into global value chains. He urged exporters to prioritize high-value products and move beyond raw material exports.

“Dependence on raw exports is no longer desirable. We demand more from every ton, every kilogram, and every product we export,” the President said.

The conference, which coincided with preparations for National Youth Day commemorations, also highlighted the need for inclusive growth, empowering SMEs, women, youth, and rural producers to participate fully in export value chains.

President Mnangagwa concluded by calling on exporters to “serve our national interests and ensure that every shipment contributes to sustainable growth, job creation, and shared prosperity.”

The 2026 ZimTrade Exporters’ Conference and Exporter of the Year Awards, held under the theme “Rooted Locally, Growing Globally,” which aimed to focus on practical strategies to harness Zimbabwe’s local strengths and accelerate export-led growth, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing.

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