HARARE, Jun. 2 (NewsDay Live) — Zimbabwe’s trade deficit widened nearly 16% in April 2026 to US$169.6 million as export earnings declined more sharply than imports, according to the latest data from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat).
Exports fell 15% to US$792.3 million in April from US$932.1 million in March, while imports dropped 10.8% to US$962 million from US$1.078 billion over the same period.
The trade gap widened from US$146.4 million in March, reflecting continued demand for imported goods, particularly fuel, while export earnings remained heavily concentrated in commodities such as gold and tobacco.
ZimStat data showed that the manufacturing sector dominated Zimbabwe’s trade flows during the month, accounting for the largest share of both exports and imports.
“Manufacturing represented the largest portion of exports in both periods, with an increase from 81% in March 2026 to 91% in April 2026,” the agency said.
The figures underscore the economy’s continued reliance on imported products despite a slowdown in import spending, while highlighting the vulnerability of export earnings to fluctuations in commodity markets.
Keep Reading
- Thousands flee economic mess
- Zim food inflation tops world: WB
- ‘1 500 women die giving birth’
- Half of Zim youths loafing: ZimStat