Staff Writer
Zimbabwe recorded a US$526.5 million trade surplus in August 2026, marking the third consecutive monthly surplus and the strongest monthly trade performance in recent years, according to figures released by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat).
Buy Zimbabwe has welcomed the development, saying the continued trade surplus demonstrated the importance of strengthening the country’s productive capacity and export competitiveness.
According to ZimStat, exports increased to US$1.68 billion in August from approximately US$1.47 billion in July, while imports remained relatively stable at US$1.152 billion.
The August surplus was 64.5 percent higher than the US$320 million recorded in July.
Buy Zimbabwe chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere said the continued surplus was encouraging and demonstrated the potential of Zimbabwe’s productive sectors to generate foreign currency.
“The third consecutive trade surplus is an encouraging development for Zimbabwe and demonstrates the potential of our productive sectors to generate foreign currency. However, we must ensure that this momentum translates into stronger domestic production, increased value addition and greater participation of local manufacturers in export markets,” said Hwengwere.
He added that Zimbabwe should use the positive trade position to deepen local value chains and reduce dependence on imported goods that could be produced competitively in the country.
“Zimbabwe must use this positive trade position to deepen local value chains and reduce dependence on imported goods that can be produced competitively in the country. The focus should now be on strengthening local production, supporting domestic manufacturers and ensuring that more value is retained within our economy. A sustained trade surplus must translate into stronger industries, more jobs and greater economic opportunities for Zimbabweans,” Hwengwere said.
Economist Persistence Gwanyanya said the sustained trade surplus was a positive development, particularly because it was largely driven by stronger export performance rather than a significant contraction in imports.
“The continued trade surplus is a positive development because it reflects stronger export earnings and an improved external position. The key now is to sustain this momentum by increasing production, diversifying exports and ensuring that more value is retained within Zimbabwe,” said Gwanyanya.
August exports were largely supported by mineral products, with semi-manufactured gold accounting for 44 percent of total exports. Agricultural exports included tobacco, cotton, seeds and maize.
The trade figures also showed growing export markets, particularly the United Arab Emirates and China.
Buy Zimbabwe will host Buy Zimbabwe Week from 23 to 27 November 2026.
The initiative will provide a platform to showcase locally produced goods and encourage consumers and businesses to prioritise Zimbabwean products.