International trade in Zimbabwe relies on both legal frameworks and development strategies to expand markets, improve export performance, and integrate the country into regional and global value chains. Border operations are guided by the Customs and Excise Act [Chapter 23:02] and the Customs and Excise (Ports of Entry and Routes) Order of 2002 (Statutory Instrument 14 of 2002), which formalise port entry and exit procedures for goods and people.
Building on this framework, the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2, 2026–2030) aims to modernise border infrastructure, strengthen trade facilitation and reposition Zimbabwe within regional and global markets. This article examines whether the NDS 2 goals on ports of exit and international trade build effectively on existing customs laws and institutions, and whether they can deliver tangible benefits for traders, businesses and the wider public.
Trade ambitions under NDS 2
NDS 2 places international trade at the centre of economic recovery and long-term growth. The strategy links trade expansion to job creation, industrialisation and stronger international partnerships, while aligning with SDG 8 and SDG 17. To achieve these outcomes, NDS 2 promotes export growth, value addition and import substitution as key tools for improving foreign currency earnings.
However, these ambitions depend heavily on stronger domestic production and improved competitiveness. Firms still face power shortages, high production costs and policy uncertainty. As a result, trade facilitation measures must work alongside broader economic reforms to produce meaningful gains.
Border Infrastructure and Zimbabwe International Trade
To support trade growth, NDS 2 proposes extensive upgrades at major border posts. The strategy seeks to reduce congestion, shorten clearance times and improve security through modern infrastructure and systems.
For example, the government plans to redevelop the Forbes Border Post between 2026 and 2028 at an estimated cost of US$232 million. The project focuses on expanding facilities and introducing modern customs technologies. In addition, authorities plan to upgrade the Chirundu Border Post through a US$68.8 million public–private partnership, strengthening its role as a key regional transit point.
Expanding trade corridors
Beyond major crossings, NDS 2 also targets emerging trade corridors to diversify routes and reduce pressure on existing borders. The Nyamapanda Border Post upgrade forms part of the broader Harare–Nyamapanda Road Rehabilitation Project, with a combined cost of US$262 million and a completion target of 2029. This corridor aims to strengthen trade links with Malawi and the eastern region.
Similarly, the Kanyemba Border Post upgrade connects to the Harare–Kanyemba Highway Rehabilitation Project. This carries a combined cost of US$384 million and targets completion by 2029. These projects seek to open alternative gateways for trade while supporting regional development.
One-Stop Border Posts and International Trade in Zimbabwe”
NDS 2 places strong emphasis on regional integration, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). One-stop border posts play a central role in this approach because they allow neighbouring countries to coordinate border controls and reduce duplication.
Under the strategy, Zimbabwe plans to establish OSBPs at Forbes–Machipanda and Nyamapanda–Cuchamano, with framework agreements scheduled for completion by the first quarter of 2026. At the same time, authorities intend to upgrade Chirundu and Plumtree into full OSBPs during the NDS 2 period, building on existing cross-border cooperation.
Roads, Borders and International Trade in Zimbabwe’s Efficiency
Efficient borders rely on reliable road infrastructure. For this reason, NDS 2 aligns border upgrades with major highway rehabilitation projects. A clear example is the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, completed for US$302 million. The project introduced separate terminals, new scanning equipment and upgraded ICT systems, which significantly reduced processing times.
In addition, authorities completed the 43 km Shurugwi–Mandamabwe Road for US$41 million, improving connectivity between Beitbridge and central trade corridors. These projects demonstrate how well-executed infrastructure investments can improve trade flows.
Trade performance and structural limits
Despite these investments, Zimbabwe’s trade performance remains constrained. Exports still rely on a narrow range of commodities. Whereas imports of fuel, vehicles, and machinery remain high. Power shortages, climate risks and high production costs continue to limit output and competitiveness.
Furthermore, foreign currency surrender requirements reduce exporters’ ability to reinvest earnings. As a result, improved border efficiency could increase import volumes faster than exports unless authorities address production and policy constraints.
Institutions and trade promotion
NDS 2 assigns a stronger coordination role to ZIMTRADE, especially in export promotion and market access. The agency must help firms meet standards, identify market opportunities and utilise trade agreements such as SADC, COMESA and AfCFTA.
However, exporters still face challenges related to certification, quality assurance and logistics. Strong coordination among customs authorities, standards bodies and trade institutions therefore remains essential.
Informal traders and financial inclusion
The strategy also recognises the role of informal and small-scale traders in cross-border commerce. NDS 2 promotes financial inclusion through microloans, savings products and digital tools that support working capital needs.
Nevertheless, finance alone will not resolve all constraints. Clear procedures, predictable enforcement and affordable compliance costs will also encourage informal traders to engage more fully in formal trade systems.
Conclusion
NDS 2 sets out an ambitious agenda for border modernisation and international trade. The scale of planned investments shows a strong commitment to improving trade facilitation. However, financing risks, policy inconsistency and structural economic challenges remain significant.
Ultimately, success will depend on combining infrastructure development with production support and policy stability. If these elements align, Zimbabwe’s ports of entry can function as gateways for growth rather than persistent bottlenecks.