This move by Zimbabwe to suspend tariffs on US imports comes in response to the recent imposition of 18% tariffs on Zimbabwean exports by US President Donald Trump’s administration.
Zimbabwe is proactively adjusting its trade policies in anticipation of potential changes to U.S. import tariffs under the Trump administration.
President Mnangagwa stated on X, “In the spirit of constructing a mutually beneficial and positive relationship with the United States of America, under the leadership of President Trump, I will direct the Zimbabwean government to implement a suspension of all tariffs levied on goods originating from the United States.”
According to the Zimbabwean president, the measure is intended to facilitate the expansion of American imports into the Zimbabwean market while simultaneously promoting the growth of Zimbabwean exports to the United States.
Zimbabwe took this position in order to mitigate the impact of a proposed 18% tariff on certain goods. This strategy aims to maintain favorable trade relations and minimize economic disruptions that could arise from increased tariffs.
However, there have been no discussions about renegotiating the U.S.’s 18% tariff on Zimbabwean goods.
Trump’s ‘Liberation day’ tariff and African trade
The “Liberation Day” tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump in April 2025 have created significant ripples in global trade, particularly for African nations.
This new set of tariffs, designed to address perceived trade imbalances and protect U.S. economic interests, imposes a substantial tariff on all imported goods from 10% (including Kenya, Ethiopia and Ghana) to 31% (South Africa) and 50% (Lesotho).
Some countries, including Zimbabwe, face specific tariffs, such as the 18% tariff on Zimbabwean exports.
The tariffs represent a major shift in U.S. trade policy, with far-reaching implications for the African continent, particularly for its trade relations with the United States.
The introduction of these tariffs is also seen as undermining the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a long-standing trade agreement that has allowed sub-Saharan African countries to export over 1,800 products to the U.S. market duty-free.
The “Liberation Day” tariffs effectively negate some of the advantages provided by AGOA, potentially stalling the progress made in strengthening U.S.-Africa trade relations.
By adjusting its market access, Zimbabwe seeks to align with U.S. trade preferences, ensuring continued export opportunities and economic stability.
However, despite this strategic move, trade between the two countries remains relatively modest. According to data from the U.S. government, trade between Zimbabwe and the U.S. amounted to just $111.6 million (£86.6 million) in 2024.
In terms of exports, the U.S. sent goods worth $43.8 million to Zimbabwe in 2024, marking a 10.6% increase from the previous year.
On the other hand, Zimbabwe’s exports to the U.S. decreased by 41%, totaling $67.8 million. This decline in exports highlights the limited impact of the trade relationship on Zimbabwe’s economy.
This approach reflects Zimbabwe’s adaptability to global trade dynamics and its commitment to sustaining beneficial economic partnerships despite shifting international trade landscapes.
