Manufacturing Sector Emerges as Zimbabwe’s Top Economic Driver

Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector has emerged as the largest contributor to national economic output, with over 15% share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to data released by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) on Saturday.

The sector’s resurgence signals a strong rebound, driven by targeted investments, rising export capacity, and sharpened value-addition strategies.

This upward trend translated into significant gains in job creation, tax revenues, and production output—marking a clear turnaround from previous years of industrial stagnation.

Mining and quarrying followed closely, contributing just over 14% of GDP, while wholesale and retail trade posted more than 11%, supported by growing consumer activity and the expansion of malls and urban retail hubs.

Agriculture, meanwhile, dropped to 9%, with crop yields severely affected by the El Niño-induced drought.

Economist Mr. Shepherd Kembo believes the manufacturing sector’s upward trajectory reflects more than luck—pointing to supportive policies, greater production efficiency, and stronger investor confidence as key factors behind the rebound.

“We are witnessing the benefits of renewed investment confidence and pragmatic industrial strategies within the manufacturing sector. But to sustain this progress, we must resolve long-standing infrastructure issues, widen access to low-interest financing, and create predictable business conditions.

“Government and industry players must collaborate more deeply to transform the manufacturing sector into a consistent growth anchor,” Kembo said.

To that end, ZBC reports that the government is rolling out a series of industrial support measures to drive output and strengthen macroeconomic resilience.

These include tax relief for exporters, rebates on raw materials, and targeted funding to revive idle or struggling factories.

Other sectors such as energy, construction, infrastructure, and financial services also made notable contributions to GDP.

Economists emphasize that deeper integration between these industries and the manufacturing sector will be essential to achieving long-term economic stability.

Analysts warn that while current momentum is promising, maintaining this growth will require more than headline figures.

Robust institutional reforms, stronger value chains, and greater regional trade integration will be vital to securing the manufacturing sector as Zimbabwe’s long-term economic backbone.