UAE leads Zimbabwe exports as trade reaches new highs in 2026

The United Arab Emirates has maintained its position as the leading destination for Zimbabwe’s exports, accounting for 50 per cent of total shipments by value in the first quarter of 2026. According to data, the country recorded total export earnings of US$2.775 billion during the period, reports The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS.

The UAE generated US$1.401 billion in import value from Zimbabwe, consolidating its dominant share of bilateral trade. South Africa and China followed, each contributing US$538 million and US$536 million, respectively, with the three markets jointly representing 89 per cent of Zimbabwe’s overall export earnings.

Semi-manufactured gold remained the country’s principal export commodity, bringing in US$1.4 billion, while nickel mattes, nickel ores, and ferro-chromium also featured among the top-performing export categories, reflecting the continued strength of the mining sector.

Trade flows with the UAE have expanded significantly in recent years, rising from US$2 billion in 2023 to US$5 billion in 2025. Minerals and horticultural products continue to dominate shipments.

Zimbabwe is also advancing its industrialisation agenda through value addition and beneficiation initiatives aimed at increasing domestic processing of raw materials. Recent policy measures include the suspension of lithium concentrate exports and the commissioning of lithium sulphate production, alongside broader strategies under the National Development Strategy 2 to enhance manufacturing capacity, boost export value, and strengthen import substitution.