Zimbabwe First to Lift Tariffs on U.S. Goods in Bold Move to Strengthen Ties Under Mnangagwa’s Leadership

Zimbabwe Lifts Tariffs on U.S. Goods After Trump’s Tariff Announcement

Zimbabwe has become the first country to lift tariffs on American goods after new U.S. global tariffs were introduced. President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the move just days after former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 18% tariffs on Zimbabwean exports, mainly tobacco and rice.

On Saturday, Mnangagwa posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Zimbabwe would suspend all taxes on goods coming from the U.S. He explained the decision was meant to build a “positive relationship” between the two nations.

“I will direct the Zimbabwean government to implement a suspension of all tariffs levied on goods originating from the United States,” he wrote.

Mnangagwa Aims to Boost Trade and Build Trust

President Mnangagwa said the policy change would help increase American imports into Zimbabwe and also support Zimbabwe’s own exports heading to the U.S. The goal, he added, is to improve trade while keeping peaceful international relations.

“This measure is intended to facilitate the expansion of American imports within the Zimbabwean market,” he said. “While promoting the growth of Zimbabwean exports destined for the United States.”

He also recognized that tariff tools can be useful for protecting local jobs and industries. However, Zimbabwe prefers to focus on building friendly ties instead of engaging in trade fights.

A Move That Sets Zimbabwe Apart

Though other countries like Vietnam and Taiwan have expressed interest in similar trade steps, Zimbabwe is the first to act publicly. Israel also removed its tariffs earlier, but still faces new U.S. duties on its goods.

Trump’s tariff plan, announced on April 2 and known as “Liberation Day,” is expected to affect dozens of countries. According to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, over 50 countries have reached out to negotiate deals before the tariffs take effect.

Zimbabwe’s quick and bold action places it at the front of the line in forming a more favorable trade agreement with the U.S.

U.S. Has Not Responded Yet

So far, there has been no official response from the U.S. government or the Trump administration about Zimbabwe’s decision. But the move could open the door for more detailed talks between Harare and Washington.

Zimbabwe’s leadership hopes this step will send a message. The country is serious about strengthening trade while remaining peaceful and cooperative in the global economy.

“The Republic of Zimbabwe maintains a policy of fostering amicable relations with all nations,” Mnangagwa said. “And cultivating adversarial relationships with none.”