Staff Reporter
THE Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, has invited Chinese investors to explore business opportunities in his province, noting its vast economic potential.
Nguluvhe made the call while attending the official opening of the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai alongside his Midlands and Matabeleland North counterparts, Owen Ncube and Richard Moyo, respectively.
According to updates from his office seen by Ziyah News Network, the expo was officially opened by the Chinese Vice Premier. The opening ceremony was also attended by the Austrian Chancellor, the President of Gabon, and more than 700 ministers from across the world, with over 4,000 companies exhibiting at the international trade showcase.
Following the opening ceremony, Nguluvhe, Ncube, and Moyo toured the Zimbabwe Pavilion ahead of its official opening on 6 November 2026.
Nguluvhe expressed delight at seeing Matabeleland South represented by Beitbridge farmer and businessman Erasmus Marema, who is showcasing his products at the expo.
He welcomed the opportunity for provincial businesses to gain international exposure, connect with potential buyers, and explore export markets.
The ministers’ participation provided a platform to promote investment in Matabeleland South and Midlands Provinces, strengthen business partnerships, and explore cooperation in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. Such engagements support provincial economic growth and align with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations.
During his visit, Nguluvhe noted that Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its economic and diplomatic ties with China through strategic engagements aimed at attracting investment, expanding trade, and promoting sustainable growth.
“The Zimbabwe–China Business Forum, held in Shanghai on the sidelines of the 9th China International Import Expo, provided a platform for Zimbabwean Government representatives to showcase investment opportunities and explore mutually beneficial partnerships,” he said.
He added that the visit by the three senior officials demonstrates the Government’s commitment to marketing provincial investment opportunities on international platforms and positioning provinces as key drivers of national economic development.
In his presentation at the forum, Nguluvhe said Matabeleland South’s strategic location, agricultural potential, livestock industry, and mineral resources were prime sectors for investment:
On Logistics and Trade, Matabeleland South’s strategic location at Beitbridge and Plumtree border posts provides direct access to South African and Botswana markets, creating opportunities in transport, warehousing, and trade facilitation.
The province’s Agro-industrial Development opportunities can expand irrigation along major rivers, including the Umzingwane and Shashe, to support citrus, small grains, and fodder production, alongside agricultural processing.
The potential for Livestock and Meat Processing is supported by strong cattle and goat farming bases, the province offers prospects in breeding, meat processing, dairy production, and the development of regional and international export markets.
It also has a huge Mining and Beneficiation resources associated with the southern part of the Great Dyke and ancient greenstone belts—including gold deposits and lithium operations—present opportunities for exploration, mining, processing, and value addition.
Matabeleland South also offers broader investment prospects across Zimbabwe’s manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure sectors, actively promoting foreign direct investment, technology transfer, and industrial partnerships.