The International Monetary Fund (IMF) urged Zimbabwe to clarify its plan to phase out the US dollar and adopt the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) as the sole currency by 2030. The Fund noted that uncertainties around the transition and the handling of existing US dollar deposits could undermine economic stability. It recommended stronger fiscal discipline, improved monetary frameworks, and transparent communication to build public confidence and support a credible shift to a mono-currency system.

Zimbabwe plans to open its State-owned railway network to private operators under a new open access framework aimed at improving efficiency and attracting investment. Deputy Transport Minister Joshua Sacco said the government will retain track ownership while private firms run freight and passenger trains. An independent regulator will oversee access fees, safety, and compliance. The reforms, aligned with SADC’s regional infrastructure agenda, are expected to boost trade connectivity across the North-South Corridor.

Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry produced a record 354.8 million kilograms in 2025, earning growers US$1.178 billion, the highest in the nation’s history, according to the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB). Farmers expanded irrigation and adopted climate-smart methods, while sustainability efforts included planting fast-growing trees for curing and fruit trees for food security. Local tobacco processing increased from 2% to 10%, supported by new investments in processing facilities.

Unifreight Africa reported a 231% year-on-year revenue increase to ZWG 545.5 million for the half-year ended June 30, 2025, driven by cross-border operations and growth in Beira Corridor trade. Profit before tax rose 154% to ZWG 51.6 million, supported by a ZWG 150.7 million tax credit. Higher costs, narrowed margins, with EBITDA declining to 18.5%. Management credited regional expansion for the gains but highlighted inflation, high interest rates, and liquidity pressures as ongoing challenges.

British American Tobacco (BAT) Zimbabwe reported a fiscal contribution of US$8.1 million during the latest period, covering Excise Duty, Corporate Tax, VAT, Customs Duties, PAYE, and Withholding Tax. Sales volumes fell 14%, and revenue dropped 28% to US$13 million due to weaker consumer spending and macroeconomic pressures. Costs rose 31% to US$4.1 million, while profit before tax recovered to US$6.6 million from a US$10.6 million loss the previous year.

Fastjet Zimbabwe launched a new domestic route connecting Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, operating four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The airline said the service will boost tourism and business travel across the Matabeleland region. Executives described the route as a milestone for Zimbabwe’s economic and tourism growth, offering improved connectivity via Fastjet’s Embraer aircraft and supporting national and regional air transport networks.