STEEL exports from Zimbabwe have increased significantly, with the country supplying large quantities to regional markets such as South Africa. According to figures released by the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), neighbouring countries are absorbing most of the shipments of the construction-related raw material.
Data from MMCZ shows that in 2025 Zimbabwe exported about 146 314 metric tonnes of steel worth approximately US$92.1 million. This represents a substantial rise in export value compared to the previous year.
The growth in exports has been supported by foreign investment and expanding local production capacity. In particular, investment linked to the Dinson Manhize steel plant has played an important role in boosting output. The facility is backed by Chinese investors, with plans to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure and production equipment, including a blast furnace.
These developments are expected to increase annual production capacity from about 600 000 metric tonnes of carbon steel to roughly 1.2 million metric tonnes.
Most of the steel exported from Zimbabwe consists of long steel products, including billets, reinforcing bars and wire rods.
These materials are widely used in construction and are primarily sold within the Southern African region.
Demand for steel and related materials has been rising in the region as governments and private investors expand infrastructure projects. South Africa in particular has been increasing spending on infrastructure development, which has contributed to higher consumption of steel and iron products.
Scrap metal is also in strong demand in South Africa, especially as some local producers reconsider parts of their operations. Industry analysts note that the country frequently experiences shortages of scrap metal, forcing manufacturers to source supplies wherever they are available to sustain production.
Zimbabwe’s iron and steel industry had previously declined following the closure of the country’s major steel producer, Ziscosteel, which struggled with operational difficulties. However, new investment and increased recycling activities are helping revive the sector.
Meanwhile, industry organisations in South Africa have expressed concern about the rising flow of imported steel into the market. They warn that growing supplies from neighbouring countries could create additional pressure for domestic producers already facing high production costs and unreliable energy supplies.
Some industry groups argue that cheaper imported products may disrupt local manufacturing value chains and intensify competition in the regional steel market.