A government-funded trade mission is bringing UK fresh produce buyers face-to-face with Zimbabwean growers
UK fresh produce buyers are heading to Zimbabwe to explore new sourcing opportunities and strengthen commercial links with the country’s horticulture sector.
From 26 September to 2 October 2026, four UK fresh produce trading businesses and importers are visiting Zimbabwean agribusinesses, meeting producers directly on their farms and assessing their potential to supply the UK market.
The visit builds on a trade mission held in March and is organised through the new Making Trade Happen (MTH) project, funded by the UK government and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations.
Over six days, buyers will get a first-hand look at how Zimbabwean producers grow, harvest and prepare fresh produce for export.
According to ITC, farm visits and business discussions will focus on the practical requirements for developing commercial relationships, including product quality, volumes, seasonality, supply schedules and export readiness.
Zimbabwean products including fine beans, mangetout, sugar snap peas, chillies and organic produce will be showcased.
Buyers will also explore opportunities across blueberries, avocados, oranges and other citrus.
”The mission comes at a time of growing opportunities for Zimbabwean horticulture exporters,” ITC explained.
”Under the Economic Partnership Agreement between Eastern and Southern African countries and the United Kingdom (ESA-UK EPA), eligible Zimbabwean products can access the UK market duty-free and quota-free, providing an important platform for producers seeking to expand their international business.
”Increasing horticulture exports can also contribute to Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy II (NDS II) for 2026-2030 by supporting export earnings, business growth and employment opportunities across agricultural value chains,” it said.
The UK buyer mission will be followed by another opportunity to connect Zimbabwean producers with international markets.
Businesses supported by the Making Trade Happen project – including those participating in the UK trade mission – will be present at Fruit Attraction in Madrid.
