The government says it has secured close to 500 new Chinese investors this year, with projected investments valued at about US$2.5 billion, reinforcing China’s position as Zimbabwe’s largest source of foreign direct investment.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding announced the development at the 2025 Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Business Review Conference in Harare, attended by policymakers and business leaders.
“According to Zida, close to 500 new Chinese businesses have registered in Zimbabwe since January, with projected investments totalling US$2.5 billion,” said Ambassador Zhou.
“China remains Zimbabwe’s largest source of foreign investment.”
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He said more than a third of the new investments are in manufacturing, a sector critical to value addition and industrialisation.
“This is a clear testament to China’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s beneficiation and industrial growth,” he said.
Ambassador Zhou attributed the surge to improved government–business dialogue and closer economic ties.
“Zimbabwe’s economic transformation and policy consistency have inspired many Chinese enterprises to deepen their engagement and contribute more to the economy,” he said.
The Herald reports that the investments are already reshaping Zimbabwe’s industrial base, anchored by major projects across several provinces.
Key projects include the US$1.5 billion Dinson Iron and Steel Company in the Midlands, Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe in Mashonaland East, and new cement and fertiliser plants in Masvingo and Manicaland.
On energy, Ambassador Zhou said China is backing Zimbabwe’s green transition.
“Multiple solar projects under construction are expected to add over 1 000 megawatts of installed capacity by 2028.
“This policy is a game changer. It will significantly expand access for Zimbabwean products to the Chinese market and stimulate job creation,” he said.
Bilateral trade between the two countries doubled from US$1.9 billion in 2021 to US$3.8 billion in 2024, according to official figures.
