Zimbabwe’ trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade is working on opening new horticulture clusters to speed up the growth of the export markets.
The clusters will be established in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces.
“To ensure speedy growth of exports in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces, the Eastern region office will develop export clusters along areas of competitive and comparative advantages,” ZimTrade said in an update.
“These clusters will accommodate out-growers so that they can help increase production of the various commodities.
“Established companies like Tanganda, Ariston, Zimbabwe Coffee Meal and Tongaat Hullet have thriving out-grower schemes that boosted their exports as well as those of respective provinces.
Zimbabwe exports horticulture products and fruits to countries such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, France and Germany.
According to ZimTrade, some companies in Harare and Bulawayo had received expert services and managed to reduce the cost of production and improved the quality of export products.
“The two provinces have untapped potential and with the right guidance, exports from these provinces can be ignited to increase export earnings. To strengthen companies in the region regain their competitive edge in the international market, ZimTrade will offer various capacity development activities.”
ZimTrade added: “This office will increase clientele interface and hence inform regional and national programming to resemble the needs of the exporting business community.
“The physical presence of ZimTrade in the Eastern region will assist it to have a broad overview of the exporters in region, mapping and reaching out to potential exporters in trade development.
“The overall goal will be to amplify the impact of ZimTrade’s activities to assist exporters in that region to get broader services from ZimTrade. The office will also provide access by local businesses to trade protocols whether bilateral or multilateral trade agreements.”
