Art and craft exports surge to $10,1 million
ZIMBABWE’S art and craft exports clocked US$10,1 million in 2023 from US$5,4 million in 2020 as the sector continues to increase its contribution to the economy while empowering ordinary people, a report shows.
According to ZimTrade, several surveys have indicated that different global markets have a huge appetite for art and craft products and this could significantly boost Zimbabwe’s export earnings.
Realising this potential, ZimTrade has in recent years been visiting provinces that are into art and craft, including Matabeleland North, where clusters were established and training held to capacitate producers with information that will enhance product quality to meet international standards.
“Notably, exports of art, collector’s pieces and antiques grew from US$5,4 million in 2020 to US$10,1 million in 2023, marking an impressive growth of approximately 100 percent,” said ZimTrade.
Jikweni Craft Centre chairman Artwell Ndlovu shows some of the crafts they sell
The agency highlighted that whilst the sector has recorded growth, here are still untapped opportunities, hence its aim is to increase the sector’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s total export earnings through technical interventions and capacity building.
“On-site technical interventions and assistance programmes are highly effective, particularly when providing specific and relevant recommendations,” said the agency.
Zimbabwe is home to exceptionally talented artisans and with the right support, there is room to increase foreign currency revenue leading to improved living standards and a more developed society.
With the assistance of ZimTrade, there has been an increase in the number of Zimbabwean artisans who are growing their exports to diverse markets, including South Africa, the United States, Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, Spain, Namibia, China, Denmark and Germany.
ZimTrade chief executive officer Allan Majuru
Official reports show that the global art and craft market clocked approximately US$42,88 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around US$70,33 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 5,6 percent.
“This market growth necessitates careful consideration and strategic adjustments to our production procedures to maintain and expand our international market share,” said ZimTrade.
The strong demand for the country’s arts and crafts is a testament to the exceptional artistic talent within Zimbabwe, with artisans leveraging a wide range of skills to create diverse products that meet the needs of various markets.
The agency said while the sector has achieved remarkable success, feedback from international markets indicates a growing demand for enhanced quality.
Art and craft exports clocked US$10,1 million in 2023 from US$5,4 million in 2020. File picture of Jikweni Craft Centre
ZimTrade, in partnership with the Germany-based Senior Expert Service (SES), has said it is stepping up efforts to empower artisans in Masvingo and Manicaland through targeted technical support aimed at further elevating their capacity and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
The intervention by experienced experts from Germany is set to play a pivotal role in boosting exports from Zimbabwe’s arts and crafts sector. Government on one hand has also made a commitment to ensure creatives are supported so that they can grow in national importance and economic value.
For instance, the Cultural and Creative Industries Strategy (2020-2030) is targeted at strengthening and transforming the creative industry at all levels.-chroncile
