EU seeks deeper economic ties with Zimbabwe

The European Union says it is seeking to deepen economic relations with Zimbabwe, highlighting the country's duty-free and quota-free access to European markets as a key driver for trade and investment growth.

Speaking during Europe Day celebrations in Harare, EU Ambassador Katrin Hagemann said Zimbabwe has enjoyed preferential access to the EU market since 2012 under existing trade arrangements.

"Since 2012, Zimbabwe benefits from privileged duty- and quota-free access to the markets of the 27 EU Member States," Hagemann said.

She said the EU remained committed to strengthening economic cooperation with Zimbabwe, despite global economic uncertainty.

"Fair and inclusive trade and investment can create jobs, foster innovation, and open new opportunities," she said. "We remain committed to deepening the economic partnership with Zimbabwe to promote shared prosperity."

Hagemann said Zimbabwe's young population and entrepreneurial drive made it a strong partner for future economic cooperation.

"Zimbabwe, in particular, stands out for its rich cultural heritage, its dynamic young population, and its entrepreneurial spirit. These are powerful foundations for the future," she said.

The ambassador also stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and technological transformation.

"In today's interconnected world, the challenges we face… do not stop at borders," she said.

She further praised locally supported initiatives funded through EU programmes, including Bio Innovation Zimbabwe and the Zim Apiculture Trust, which work with rural smallholder farmers to create sustainable business opportunities.

Hagemann also acknowledged the role of financial institutions supporting the partnership, including NMB Bank Zimbabwe, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, and Ecobank Zimbabwe, describing them as important links between finance and the private sector.

"Let us continue building bridges between the European Union and Zimbabwe—with confidence, with respect, and with a shared sense of purpose," she said.

The remarks come as the EU prepares to launch a €7.8 million capacity-building programme targeting Zimbabwe's horticulture export sector, as trade relations between the two partners continue to strengthen.

Recent figures show total EU-Zimbabwe trade has reached US$919 million, with Zimbabwe recording a trade surplus of US$328 million. The EU remains Zimbabwe's largest horticultural export market, underpinned by the Economic Partnership Agreement that grants duty-free and quota-free access to all 27 EU member states.