EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum Draws 200 Firms, Signalling Renewed Trade and Investment Momentum

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More than 60 European companies and over 150 local firms have convened in Harare for the inaugural EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum—an initiative designed to boost bilateral trade and investment. Anchored by the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, the forum aims to unlock new economic opportunities between Zimbabwe and the European Union.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, Permanent Secretary Ambassador Albert Chimbindi emphasised the forum’s role in facilitating meaningful dialogue and partnerships. “This platform enables direct engagement between Zimbabwean and European businesses, fostering trust and mutual understanding,” he said. The high turnout—200 companies in the first quarter of 2025—reflects growing enthusiasm for deeper economic collaboration.

EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst von Kirchmann highlighted the EU’s interest in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, horticulture, and renewable energy. “We’re here to open doors—and ensure they remain open—by showcasing real investment opportunities across value chains,” he noted.

Held under the theme “Unlocking Sustainable Trade and Investment under the Global Gateway,” the forum has attracted participants from across Europe, including France, Germany, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, and more—an engagement level unseen in recent years. This signals positive outcomes from Zimbabwe’s ongoing engagement and re-engagement efforts under President Mnangagwa’s administration.

In a bid to encourage European investment, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) assured foreign investors of smooth profit and dividend repatriation, provided proper investment registration procedures are followed. Deputy Governor Dr. Innocent Matshe underscored the importance of regulatory compliance to build trust in the local financial system.

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Ambassador von Kirchmann also praised Zimbabwean businesses for their timely loan repayments, enhancing the country’s investment credibility. Supporting this momentum, nearly USD 100 million has been injected into Zimbabwe’s economy through loans from the European Investment Bank and PROPARCO, benefiting institutions such as NMB, CABS, Stanbic, and First Capital Bank. These funds primarily support agriculture, food production, and renewable energy development.