Zimbabwe’s steel industry has recorded historic growth, with exports soaring 1 427% in volume to 172,000 tonnes, while the value surged by 1 913% to US$50 million in the first eight months of 2025.

Key Drivers:

• Growth powered by the commissioning of the Dinson Iron and Steel Company (DISCO) plant — a subsidiary of China’s Tsingshan Holdings, one of the world’s largest stainless steel producers. 
• This marks Zimbabwe’s return as a steel exporter, after years of being a net importer following the collapse of ZISCO in 2008. 

Overall Mineral Exports (Jan–Aug 2025):

• Total volumes: +13% → 3.34 million tonnes. 
• Total value: US$2.04 billion, slightly down from US$2.14 billion due to weaker global prices for high-value minerals. 

Other Standout Performers:

• Coal: Volume +102%, Value +124% (US$14.43m). 
• Coke products: Volume +28%, Value +25%. 

Challenges:

• Despite stronger volumes, lower global commodity prices dragged down overall export revenues by 4%. 
• High-value minerals suffered declines, offsetting gains from steel, coal, and coke.