Zimbabwe’s merchandise exports climbed 61% to $10.4 billion between January and September 2026, while value-added exports increased 68% to $671 million. The figures put the country on course toward its goal of generating $1 billion in value-added exports by 2030. Speaking at a trade forum in Harare, the CEO of the country’s trade promotion agency urged local producers to build stronger relationships with international buyers, arguing it will boost exports and make the country more productive. He cited business connections in Bulawayo that have linked companies with customers in South Africa and Angola as examples. Zimbabwe’s foreign affairs and international trade secretary encouraged producers to shift from raw commodities to processed and manufactured goods, arguing that value addition creates jobs and boosts earnings.