China has made firm promises to continue backing Zimbabwe in its industrialization and modernization efforts, according to Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding. Speaking at a reception in Harare on the eve of China’s 76th National Day, Zhou emphasized China’s ongoing commitment to invest in Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector and to deepen economic cooperation between the two countries.
Ambassador Zhou pointed out that this year marks 45 years of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe. Over that period, Chinese companies have contributed significantly to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development, building up infrastructure, industrial chains, and supply chains, while creating employment opportunities.
To push value addition in Zimbabwe’s economy, Zhou encouraged further Chinese investment in domestic manufacturing and sought policy incentives from the Zimbabwean government to attract both Chinese and international investors. Measures such as zero-tariff policies under China’s recent trade initiatives were noted as opportunities for boosting exports and expanding trade volumes.
Zhou also emphasized that Chinese companies are not only participants in large infrastructure projects but are increasingly involved in boosting local production capacity. He expressed hope that more manufacturing operations would be set up in Zimbabwe, helping shift the economy from raw exports to value-added products.
