The Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ) has secured access to nine new export markets across Eastern and Southern Africa, creating fresh trade corridors for Zimbabwean steel, coal and coke products as the country accelerates efforts to deepen regional mineral trade.
The market expansion comes as Zimbabwe’s high-carbon ferrochrome exports generated US$286.54 million during the first ten months of the year, underscoring the growing contribution of value-added mineral products to national export earnings.
The newly established markets are located within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), broadening Zimbabwe’s regional footprint and reducing dependence on traditional export destinations that can be vulnerable to global market fluctuations.
MMCZ said the new trade corridors are expected to provide immediate opportunities for industrial coal and coke producers, particularly as domestic output continues to rise following significant private-sector investment in the Hwange and metallurgical coal basins.
The expansion also coincides with strong performance from the ferrochrome sector. High-carbon ferrochrome sales reached US$286.54 million by October 27, supported by sustained demand from regional infrastructure and industrial projects.
Smelters in the Midlands Province accounted for the majority of production volumes, benefiting from improved electricity supply during the third quarter.
According to MMCZ officials, bilateral trade agreements and streamlined customs procedures under regional free-trade arrangements played a key role in unlocking the new markets.
The corporation said administrative processes are now being finalized to enable the first bulk rail and road consignments to move through the newly established corridors before the end of the month.
The development strengthens Zimbabwe’s strategy of leveraging regional integration to expand mineral exports while creating more stable and diversified markets for locally produced industrial minerals and metals. 
