Zimbabwe recorded single-digit annual inflation for the first time since 1997, with ZiG inflation falling to about 4% in January 2026 from 15% in December. Authorities link the slowdown to exchange rate stability, tight monetary policy, and rising foreign reserves backing the gold-backed ZiG currency. The milestone supports plans to make ZiG the sole currency by 2030, despite ongoing dollarization and sustainability risks.

Zimbabwe recorded a strong export-led performance in late 2025, posting a $240.2 million trade surplus in December as shipments of gold, tobacco, and nickel increased, according to Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency. Cumulative exports rose 27% in 2025, supported by higher gold output and prices. Improved fiscal and monetary discipline, stronger reserves, and reduced food imports helped narrow the annual trade deficit and strengthen external balances.

Air Zimbabwe will resume flights to London by June 2026, ending a 14-year hiatus, Mutapa Investment Fund CEO John Mangudya said. The airline is selling two unused Boeing 777s to fund new domestic aircraft and plans to lease a wide-body plane for long-haul routes. The return of London flights will serve Zimbabwe’s diaspora, revive exports, and strengthen operations. Currently, the airline operates two Embraer ERJ-145s on domestic and regional routes.

BlackRock Inc increased its stake in Caledonia Mining Corporation to 7.45%, up from 6.2%, deepening its exposure to Zimbabwe’s growing gold sector. The move strengthens Caledonia’s credibility with lenders and co-investors as it develops the Bilboes project. Listed on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange, Caledonia operates Blanket Mine and other projects including Bilboes, Maligreen, and Motapa. The company recently raised US$125 million through convertible notes to advance its local portfolio.

Zimbabwe is advancing its digital economy agenda after ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera held talks with Australian Ambassador Minoli Perera on expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Discussions focused on skills development, knowledge transfer, and Zimbabwe’s forthcoming National AI Strategy, due in March. Authorities see stronger ICT partnerships as key to driving innovation, productivity, and long-term economic growth.

Tourism from Zimbabwe to the United States fell 5.7% in 2025, mirroring a broader decline in African travel to the United States. Data showed arrivals from more than 40 African countries dropped over 10%, driven by economic pressures, weaker local currencies, high international airfares, and difficult visa hurdles. The overall trend clearly reflected shifting travel preferences toward regional and more affordable destinations.