Zimbabwe economy surges 7.5% in 2025 as mining boom and reforms drive growth

Zimbabwe’s economy expanded by 7.5 per cent in 2025, outperforming official forecasts and reinforcing signs of a sustained economic recovery, according to data from the International Monetary Fund.

The latest figures, published in the World Economic Outlook, highlight strengthening macroeconomic stability and growing confidence in the country’s reform agenda, reports The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube confirmed that growth exceeded the government’s initial 6.6 per cent target, citing stronger-than-expected performance across key sectors of the economy.

Economic expansion was primarily driven by a surge in mining activity, supported by elevated global gold prices and a recovery in platinum and lithium production. At the same time, fiscal reforms – particularly the rollout of a digital tax system – significantly improved revenue mobilisation and efficiency.

This momentum has carried into 2026, with first-quarter revenues exceeding targets by 24 per cent.

While the IMF projects growth to moderate to 5.0 per cent in 2026 and 4.2 per cent in 2027, national authorities remain optimistic about the outlook. Strong agricultural performance is expected to continue supporting broader economic activity, with positive spillovers into manufacturing, energy and tourism.

The government has also underlined its commitment to fiscal discipline, aiming to sustain public investment and social support programmes. The stronger-than-expected growth figures and improved fiscal performance are likely to boost investor confidence and enhance Zimbabwe’s standing with international partners, experts claimed.