Zimbabwe sees surge in investor enquiries

Zimbabwe is beginning to reap tangible benefits from its ease of doing business reforms, with investor interest rising sharply in the last quarter of 2025, according to the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA).

ZIDA recorded more than 160 investor enquiries from both local and foreign investors during the fourth quarter of 2025, a significant increase from an average of about 100 enquiries recorded in the preceding quarter. This represents a 60 percent rise in interest, underscoring growing confidence in the country's investment climate.

ZIDA serves as the first point of contact for prospective investors and has, in recent years, been transformed into a one-stop investment services centre, streamlining the approval of investment proposals and cutting down bureaucratic delays.

Officials at the agency say enquiries are now being handled on a daily basis, with some investors visiting ZIDA offices in person to explore opportunities across various sectors of the economy.

Investors who have engaged with the agency attributed their renewed interest to reduced costs of doing business and improved regulatory efficiency.

"Reduction of the costs of doing business is a noble element," one investor said. "In my country, similar reforms have increased investor confidence, and Zimbabwe needs to be commended on that aspect. A competitive business environment is crucial in facilitating growth, and by reducing costs, I can save more and invest in other sectors."

The investor added that Zimbabwe's resource base and reform agenda make it an attractive destination, particularly in capital-intensive sectors such as mining.

"As costs become more affordable, utilisation of resources becomes more viable. I am looking into possibilities of investing in the mining sector," the investor said.

The increase in enquiries has been linked to reforms introduced by the Second Republic, which include the reduction of licence fees, permits, levies and taxes across multiple sectors.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the reforms late last year as part of a broader strategy to enhance the country's competitiveness.

"My Government has reviewed licences, permits, levies and fees, as well as multiple regulatory requirements across all sectors to enhance the ease of doing business, reduce costs and improve the competitiveness of local industry," President Mnangagwa said at the time. He added that relevant statutory instruments and legislation would be amended accordingly.

Commercial lawyer James Makiya said the rising investor interest reflects the impact of the reforms.

"These reforms are necessary to attract much-needed local and foreign direct investment," Makiya said. "They are being implemented at a time when the Second Republic continues to set records in output of strategic commodities, and in the long term they will position Zimbabwe as a favourable destination for business."

Authorities believe the reforms will stimulate economic growth by broadening participation across sectors, while supporting the country's goal of attaining upper middle-income status by 2030.