Zimbabwe and China recently signed a citrus phytosanitary protocol that allows the southern African country to export fresh fruits to the Asian economic giant.
The phytosanitary protocol requires that a cold chain system for the export of fresh citrus fruits to China be put in place for the management of False Codling Moth and other pests.
The Chinese Embassy has confirmed the deal.
“We are implementing President Xi’s pledge that China will open a Green Channel for the export of African agricultural products. It will benefit more Zimbabwean farmers,” wrote the embassy.
The agreement between the two countries was initially signed in 2015 as Zimbabwe looked for a market for Shashi Citrus smallholder farmers.
However, the exports were delayed as China waited for post-risk assessment information for the export of fresh citrus fruits from Zimbabwe.
Unlike the initial requirement for cooling to begin on the farm, this cold chain system is required to begin at the port.
China was represented by the General Administration of Customs of China, Minister Ni Yuefeng while Zimbabwe was represented by Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Anxious Masuka
Fresh citrus fruits to be exported include; sweet orange, mandarin orange, grapefruit, lemon, and sour orange.