Zimbabwe has commenced commercial exports of blueberries to China, opening access to one of the world’s fastest-growing fruit markets as the country seeks to diversify agricultural exports and strengthen trade ties with Beijing. According to Reuters, the first shipment follows the signing of a phytosanitary protocol between Zimbabwe and China in September 2025, enabling Zimbabwean growers to meet China’s import requirements for fresh blueberries. The inaugural consignment marks a significant milestone for the country’s expanding horticulture sector.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) described the shipment as a breakthrough for Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry, noting that the focus will now shift to increasing production and identifying the most efficient supply routes into the Chinese market. Zimbabwe is also among the 53 African countries benefiting from China’s zero-tariff policy, which came into effect on May 1, 2026, granting duty-free access for eligible exports to the world’s second-largest economy.
Zimbabwe has emerged as Africa’s third-largest blueberry producer, behind Morocco and South Africa, with favourable climatic conditions supporting one of the fastest-growing blueberry industries globally. HDC data shows the country expects to export approximately 12,000 metric tonnes of blueberries from around 850 hectares in 2026, up from 9,500 tonnes produced on 650 hectares the previous year. Beyond China, Zimbabwe’s established export markets include the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, South Africa, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.
For Zimbabwe, the launch of blueberry exports to China represents another milestone in expanding high-value agricultural exports beyond traditional markets. Analysts say access to China’s vast consumer base, combined with preferential trade arrangements, could attract further investment into Zimbabwe’s horticulture industry, increase foreign exchange earnings, and strengthen the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading exporters of premium fresh produce.
