Transforming Trade: POSB Leads Dialogue on Boosting Zimbabwe’s Export Competitiveness

The People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) proudly hosted a high-impact Exports Awareness Seminar on Friday, 30 May 2025, at Cresta Lodge, Msasa, Harare. The event formed part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s export development agenda and empowering local businesses with practical knowledge to scale globally.

Held under the theme “Innovation and Strategies for Transforming Zimbabwe’s Export Competitiveness and Growth,” the seminar convened stakeholders from across the export value chain, including exporters, regulators, policy advisors, and development partners for a day of expert-led dialogue and solution-driven discussions.

Key focus areas included:

• The challenges and opportunities in transitioning from raw material exports to value-added products
• Export readiness and entry strategies for new exporters
• The role of export credit insurance, presented by the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC)
• Insights into the horticultural sector, particularly the importance of GAP certifications for international market access

The seminar featured expert contributions from institutions including the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), ZIMRA, ZimTrade, the Horticultural Development Council, and the Agricultural Marketing Authority, among others—each offering practical policy insights and on-the-ground realities shaping the export sector.

Speaking through Mr. Farai Chirikure, Divisional Director of Corporate and Investment Banking, POSB CEO Mr. Garainashe Changunda underscored the Bank’s mission to champion local exporters:

“Exporters play a pivotal role in our economy. They help create employment, increase foreign exchange earnings, and contribute to the country’s economic growth. Zimbabwe has enormous export potential, and POSB is committed to helping businesses take advantage of these opportunities.”

“As POSB, we believe the country has what it takes to compete on the global stage. But we must innovate and be ahead of the game. We must invest in quality, in compliance, in logistics, and in partnerships. We must ensure that our exporters, especially small and medium enterprises, have access to the financial tools and knowledge they need to thrive. That’s why we are going beyond traditional banking to convene seminars to create a space where exporters, policymakers, financiers, and development partners can engage meaningfully, share knowledge, and forge solutions.”

As part of this commitment, POSB continues to offer tailored financial solutions for exporters, including:

• Corporate banking services and multi-currency accounts (USD, EUR, ZAR)
• Competitive exchange rates and swift international payment platforms
• Trade finance instruments such as Letters of Credit, pre- and post-shipment financing, and working capital loans

To maximize reach and participation, the seminar was live-streamed via POSB’s official Facebook page, enabling nationwide virtual engagement and knowledge-sharing.

📽️ Missed the event? Watch the full seminar recording here: https://www.facebook.com/POSBzw/videos/1632536527449151