Zimbabwe, a significant player in the global tapioca starch market, has witnessed notable developments in its import activities.
Imports
In 2021, Zimbabwe imported tapioca starch worth $105k, positioning the country as the 86th largest importer of this product globally. Tapioca starch ranked as the 1976th most imported commodity in Zimbabwe during the same year. Zimbabwe primarily imports tapioca starch from Hong Kong ($63.6k), South Africa ($24.8k), Thailand ($16.4k), and China ($15).
Zimbabwe experienced notable growth in its import market for tapioca starch between 2020 and 2021, primarily driven by Hong Kong with an increase of $7.17k. This growth reflects the increasing demand for tapioca starch in Zimbabwe from Hong Kong, highlighting the strengthening trade relations between the two regions.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | South Africa | 24,842 |
| Asia | China | 15 |
| Asia | Hong Kong | 63,569 |
| Asia | Thailand | 16,432 |
Tariffs
In 2016, the average tariff imposed on tapioca starch imports in Zimbabwe was 13.7%. Notably, Benin, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Cote d’Ivoire, and Cameroon implemented the highest import tariffs on tapioca starch, with a Most Favoured Nation duty rate treatment of 15%. These tariffs signify the trade policies and protective measures enforced by these countries to regulate the inflow of tapioca starch imports.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe’s position as an importer of tapioca starch underscores its active participation in the global market. The country has witnessed notable growth in its import market, with Hong Kong emerging as a significant source of tapioca starch. Additionally, imports from South Africa, Thailand, and China contribute to Zimbabwe’s tapioca starch supply. As trade policies and tariffs continue to shape the industry, stakeholders in the tapioca starch trade must remain vigilant about evolving market dynamics to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges effectively in Zimbabwe’s dynamic market environment.
Data from BACI