Fresh Zimbabwean Blueberries Gain Zero-Tariff Access to China

During Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent visit to China, the two sides signed a phytosanitary agreement enabling Zimbabwean blueberry exports to the Chinese market. In June 2025, China also announced a policy granting zero-tariff treatment on all tariff lines for the 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. This means that Zimbabwean blueberries will enjoy tariff-free access to China.

Zimbabwe began small-scale blueberry cultivation in 2008 and achieved its first exports in 2017. The country’s blueberry season runs from April to October, with 60% of the crop harvested between August and October. Since 2018, Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports have grown tenfold, with major markets including the European Union, the United Kingdom and the Middle East.

In 2024, Zimbabwe’s blueberry production reached 8,000 metric tons, with exports rising from 3,616 metric tons in the 2023/24 season to 4,096 metric tons in 2024/25, a 13.3% increase. Production is projected to climb further to 12,000 metric tons in 2025. With supportive policies that encourage grower investment, Zimbabwe has the potential to become Africa’s largest blueberry exporter.

According to Linda Nielsen, executive director of Zimbabwe’s Horticultural Development Council, the agreement marks a milestone for the country’s horticulture industry. She emphasized that the sector now needs greater collaboration to shape policies that attract investment, boost production and ensure that blueberries comply with China’s strict quality and phytosanitary standards.

The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe is reportedly considering raising $50 million to support the horticulture sector, with a focus on smallholder farmers and small enterprises. Target crops include citrus, blueberries, macadamia nuts, apples, coffee, avocados and bananas, with plans to expand blueberry cultivation from 600 hectares to 1,500 hectares.

Image: Pixabay

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article.