Exporters must meet origin rules, registration and documentation requirements to qualify for duty-free access to the Chinese market until April 2028.
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has published guidance outlining the requirements for exporters seeking to benefit from China’s zero-tariff programme for eligible goods originating from Zimbabwe.
Under the programme, qualifying Zimbabwean products exported to China are eligible for duty-free treatment from 1 May 2026 until 30 April 2028. The initiative covers a range of products, including horticultural products, groundnuts, citrus fruits, minerals and high-value manufactured products, to support trade between the two countries.
To qualify for the preferential treatment, products must originate in Zimbabwe. Goods must either be wholly obtained in the country or satisfy the applicable Rules of Origin by demonstrating sufficient Zimbabwean content or substantial transformation. In addition, production inputs originating from China may be treated as originating in Zimbabwe where the relevant Rules of Origin are met.
ZIMRA said exporters must register through the Zimbabwe Electronic Single Window (ZESW) platform to participate in the programme. They must also obtain a Certificate of Origin issued through ZimTrade, which is required for goods to receive duty-free treatment on entry into China.
The guidance also requires exporters to comply with all customs procedures as well as China’s sanitary, phytosanitary, safety and quality standards, particularly for agricultural products.
Goods are expected to be shipped directly from Zimbabwe to China. Where exports transit through a third country, the goods must remain under customs control and must not be altered or processed, except where necessary for their preservation or transportation.
ZIMRA further advised exporters to retain supporting records, including production records, product traceability information and shipping and export documentation, for at least six years. The records must be available for inspection by auditors or other authorised officials upon request.
