Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe’s economic prospects have caught the attention of Polish investors, with a high-level delegation from Poland currently engaging local businesses and government officials in Harare at the Zimbabwe–Polish Chamber of Commerce Business Forum. The mission, which includes representatives from over 10 companies, is focused on key growth sectors such as mining, agriculture, ICT, construction, manufacturing, and energy.
The forum, held to strengthen bilateral economic ties, marks a significant step in deepening cooperation between the two countries. Trade and investment agreements have already been concluded with relevant regulatory authorities, giving Polish companies confidence in Zimbabwe’s market potential.
Speaking at the forum as a member of the Polish business delegation Dr. Malgorzata Bonikowska emphasised that the purpose of this visit is to explore what is in store for us as far as investing in Zimbabwe is concerned.
“There is a huge scope for further accelerating business ties with Poland, and this is mainly being driven by the desire to boost existing trade ties,” said Dr. Bonikowska.
The Polish Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairperson, Mr. Andrzej Szumowski, said Poland’s competitive advantage lies in its technological capabilities, which can greatly benefit Zimbabwe’s economic development goals.
“We are interested in exploring sectoral partnerships or alliances in agriculture, irrigation, construction, and infrastructure development, among others. Our strong base and technological edge present a compelling opportunity for Zimbabwean firms seeking to scale operations and access international markets,” said Szumowski.
Poland’s envoy based in Pretoria, Ambassador Jacek Chodorowicz underscored the importance of such engagements in promoting trust and direct dialogue between business communities.
“There is ample scope to diversify the existing trade mix and improve the current level of economic cooperation. This forum provides an opportunity or platform to facilitate direct dialogue and networking between Zimbabwean businesses and companies, fostering trust and confidence as evidenced by the impressive attendance of companies from across Poland and Zimbabwe,” explained Ambassador Chodorowicz.
The Government of Zimbabwe has welcomed the Polish delegation, pledging its continued support for foreign investment. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ambassador Albert Chimbindi represented by Director of International Trade Kindon Gandanga, highlighted the country’s improving trade figures with Poland.
“Trade between Zimbabwe and Poland is beginning to show signs of recovery despite the imposition of illegal sanctions by the EU. In 2023, Zimbabwe’s exports to Poland rose to US$938,000 from US$82,000 in 2022. Imports from Poland, including agricultural machinery and construction equipment, grew from US$37.5 million to nearly US$49 million,” Gandanga said.
He noted that Zimbabwe currently exports raw materials such as tobacco, granite, and citrus fruits, while importing tractors, agricultural tools, and wheat from Poland.
“There is ample scope to diversify this trade mix and improve the balance of trade, which currently favours Poland,” he added.
The forum is taking place against the backdrop of Zimbabwe’s ongoing economic reforms designed to make the country more investor-friendly. These include the establishment of a One-Stop Investment Services Centre, tariff rationalisation, legal protections for investors, and policies that guarantee the full repatriation of profits and capital.
As the discussions progress, the forum is expected to yield long-term partnerships, technology transfer, and expanded trade opportunities. Both sides agree that the visit marks the beginning of a more dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship between Poland and Zimbabwe.
