Market access part of Zimbabwe’s plans to develop its horticulture sector into US$1bn industry
China has signed a protocol for phytosanitary requirements to allow the exports of Zimbabwean avocados to China.
The protocol was one of the agreements signed between the countries on 3 September during Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s state visit to Beijing for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, according to reporting from Xinhua.
Zimbabwe’s Horticultural Development Council (HDC) welcomed the move saying the development will promote the growth of the industry.
Chief executive Linda Nielsen said in a statement the protocol presented the potential for avocado growers in Zimbabwe to expand their reach into one of the world’s largest avocado markets.
“The signing of this protocol delivers a significant opportunity for Zimbabwe to take advantage of the vast Chinese market,” she said. “This will require strategic intent to meet the strict requirements of the Chinese market. Horticulture producers are ready to discuss investment requirements.”
Zimbabwe is projected to produce a record 6,000 tonnes of avocados in 2024, according to Nielsen, and the avocado industry is planning to increase the growing area from the current 1,500ha to 4,000ha by 2030.
“This growth is a critical component of the Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan, which aims to develop the horticulture sector into a US$1bn industry. Reaching this target will require supportive policies that attract investment to ramp up production,” Nielsen said.
According to the statement, HDC is working with stakeholders to pursue similar protocols for blueberries, pecans, and macadamia nuts for the Chinese market.
