Zimbabwean firms prepare to capitalize on China's zero-tariff policy
via NewsDay Zimbabwe5 min read
Zimbabwean firms are strategically positioning themselves to leverage China's new zero-tariff trade policy, which aims to strengthen economic ties with African nations. Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Zhemu Soda highlighted that the policy, effective May 1, offers significant opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses to expand production and access the vast Chinese market. China remains Zimbabwe's leading source of foreign investment, with commitments exceeding US$10 billion. Annual trade between China and Africa was estimated at US$348 billion in 2025. Wu Bing, president of the Academy for International Business Officials, noted that trade between Zimbabwe and China reached US$3.82 billion in 2024, marking a 24% year-on-year increase. The media is encouraged to play a crucial role in fostering these economic linkages.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
Must ReadThe Zimbabwean government has engaged South African authorities to address concerns about the safety of its nationals amidst renewed xenophobic tensions. Recent protests in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and other cities have involved looting and violence targeting migrants from other African countries, including Zimbabweans. Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs minister Ziyambi Ziyambi stated in the Senate that Harare is in constant communication with South African authorities, noting that recent demonstrations were largely peaceful. He added that the government has discussed the status of Zimbabweans living and working in South Africa under special permit arrangements, some of whom benefited from permits introduced in 2010 and are seeking renewal. Ziyambi emphasized that there is no immediate danger to Zimbabwean citizens in South Africa and referenced ongoing legal processes, including a court order reportedly barring deportations or discontinuing permit extensions. The Zimbabwean embassy in Pretoria continues to monitor developments and provide updates.
The FBC Zimbabwe Open has contributed US$10,000 to Cancerserve, an organization dedicated to supporting disadvantaged cancer patients in Zimbabwe. This donation, part of the "Swing for Wellness" initiative launched at last year's tournament, aims to provide financial assistance, facilitate partnerships with the Ministry of Health, and advocate for policy changes. FBC Holdings chief executive officer Trynos Kufazvinei stated that this initiative aligns with the group's social responsibility agenda, with hopes to exceed this amount in the current year. Zimbabwe Open Committee chairperson Livingstone Gwata highlighted the tournament's dual purpose of golf development and community support. Cancerserve Trust founder and chairperson Anna Mary Nyakabau emphasized the critical timing of the donation, noting that Zimbabwe records over 8,000 new cancer cases and approximately 3,000 deaths annually. She added that support from the Zimbabwe Open, FBC Holdings, Zimre Holdings, and Caledonia Mining sends a message of solidarity to patients, enabling more awareness, screenings, and patient support in line with the Zimbabwe National Cancer Control Plan. The 2026 FBC Zimbabwe Open will feature 144 golfers globally, including Zimbabwean professional Kieran Vincent, and continues to grow as both a sporting event and a platform for social impact.
A new historical musical, "Mzilikazi: The General Who Defied Shaka Zulu," is set to premiere in September 2027, with auditions scheduled for July and August this year. Executive producer and director Albert Nyathi describes the production as a celebration of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and a tool for cultural preservation. The musical traces King Mzilikazi kaMashobane's journey from an orphaned exile to the founding monarch of the Ndebele nation, detailing his rise under Shaka Zulu and his eventual breakaway to form a new kingdom. It explores themes of defiance, identity, and nation-building, showing how various groups were unified into the Ndebele state. The production will also depict Mzilikazi's encounters with figures like missionary Robert Moffat and traditional spiritual leaders. Nyathi emphasized the team's commitment to historical depth and cultural authenticity, engaging with historians, cultural custodians, and community voices. The musical will feature a blend of song, dance, and ritual, incorporating traditional performances such as indlamu and isitshikitsha. Kingdom Blue Funeral Service has supported the project by funding the initial writeshop. Nyathi called for public support, highlighting the musical's role in preserving Zimbabwe's heritage and inspiring future generations.
Tanaka Prince Moyo, known as t'naka AM.P or Black Zeus, is an artist from Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, who is gaining recognition for his deliberate approach to music. He began writing rhymes in high school, forming the foundation for his recording career, which started in 2018. Unlike artists who chase trends, t'naka AM.P emphasizes lyrical craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from artists like Eminem, NF, Joyner Lucas, Hopsin, and J Cole. While he started in hip-hop, his music now spans metal rock, afropop, and R&B, maintaining a cohesive identity across genres. His music, available on platforms like Spotify, Audiomack, and YouTube, aims to be motivational and thought-provoking. T'naka AM.P plans to establish his brand, Amplified Music, globally and empower emerging artists and producers. He also seeks collaborations with Zimbabwean artists such as Jah Prayzah, Holy Ten, Voltz JT, Freeman, Runna Rulez, and Sane Wav, whether through singing or production.