Zimbabwe has commenced blueberry exports to China following the implementation of a phytosanitary agreement signed between the two countries last year, opening access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
According to Reuters, the first shipment marks an important milestone for Zimbabwe’s horticultural sector as producers seek to capitalise on growing global demand for blueberries, driven largely by increasing consumer interest in healthy foods.
The development comes as Zimbabwe continues efforts to diversify its export base and strengthen agricultural trade relationships with key international markets.
The latest export breakthrough also aligns with broader initiatives championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to expand agricultural production, increase export earnings, and deepen economic ties with strategic partners.
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Reuters reported that Zimbabwe and China agreed on phytosanitary standards for blueberry exports in September 2025, paving the way for shipments to begin this year.
Zimbabwe is among the 53 African countries benefiting from China’s zero-tariff policy, which came into effect on May 1 and provides preferential access to the Chinese market.
The Horticultural Development Council described the inaugural shipment as an important step toward scaling production and identifying efficient supply routes into China.
“Now, work shifts to scaling production and testing the best supply routes to this huge new market,” the industry body said in a statement announcing the first export consignment.
Reuters noted that Zimbabwe has become one of the fastest-growing blueberry producers globally, supported by favourable climatic conditions and expanding investment in horticulture.
The country is currently Africa’s third-largest blueberry producer behind Morocco and South Africa.
What This Means For Africa
Zimbabwe’s entry into the Chinese blueberry market reflects the growing opportunities available to African agricultural exporters as trade relationships with Asia continue to deepen.
For President Emmerson Mnangagwa, expanding access to international markets remains an important element of Zimbabwe’s economic strategy, particularly in sectors capable of generating foreign exchange and creating employment opportunities.
Reuters reported that Zimbabwe expects blueberry exports to rise to approximately 12,000 metric tonnes in 2026, up from 9,500 tonnes recorded the previous year.
Production is also expanding, with cultivation increasing from 650 hectares to around 850 hectares.
Beyond China, Zimbabwe already exports blueberries to several established markets, including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, South Africa, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.
The latest development highlights the growing importance of horticulture as a driver of export diversification across Africa.
As demand for premium agricultural products continues to rise globally, countries with favourable growing conditions are increasingly positioning themselves to capture new market opportunities.
For Africa, Zimbabwe’s experience demonstrates how improved market access, supportive trade policies, and investment in agricultural value chains can help strengthen competitiveness and enhance export performance.
The commencement of blueberry shipments to China also signals the potential for African producers to benefit further from expanding trade partnerships and preferential market access arrangements in the years ahead.
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