Inaugural Zim-China Expo 2025
The inaugural Zimbabwe–China Tobacco Expo has successfully concluded, marking a historic milestone for Africa’s tobacco sector. Officially launched by Hon. Dr. Anxious Masuka, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, this groundbreaking event brought together China and the T5 countries (Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique) under the powerful theme: “From Leaf to Legacy – Connecting Markets, Creating Value.”
Key Highlights: 300+ delegates from 6 countries; 60+ exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge innovation; Zimbabwe achieved 355 million kg production, surpassing the 2025 target of 300 million kg; New ambitious target: 500 million kg by 2030.
Dr. Masuka described the expo as “a defining moment for the sector, uniting vision and value.” With China as Zimbabwe’s principal market, this strategic platform deepened market intelligence, fostered producer-buyer engagement, and advanced the government’s value addition and beneficiation drive.
Later in his address to the assembled delegates, Dr. Masuka also indicated the removal of wood for curing by the year 2030.
The accompanying Business Forum addressed critical industry priorities: strengthening Zimbabwe’s position as Africa’s premier sustainable tobacco source, empowering local merchants, advancing research and innovation, and unlocking investment pathways across the value chain.
This two-decade partnership between Zimbabwe and China continues to transform our tobacco industry, from rebirth in 2005 to record-breaking success in 2025.
Congratulations to our farmers and all industry stakeholders for this remarkable achievement!