The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) is currently taking place, providing Zimbabwean companies like Eden Chase an opportunity to showcase their products and explore new markets.
Valerie Madziva, co-founder of Eden Chase, which specializes in exporting fruits and vegetables, reported a strong interest in their blueberries on the second day of the event. “We received many inquiries and have several B2B meetings planned after the expo,” she said. This interest highlights a market gap that Eden Chase aims to fill.
Blueberries are increasingly popular due to their nutritional benefits and versatility, and demand is expected to double in the next five years. Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a key player in the global blueberry market, with around 600 hectares dedicated to blueberry farming, producing about 9,000 tonnes annually, of which 6,500 tonnes are exported.
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Many potential clients at MIHAS expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of blueberries from other countries, presenting a great opportunity for Eden Chase, which focuses on high-quality, organic produce.
Despite challenges like high shipping costs from Zimbabwe, Madziva believes collaboration among companies is crucial for success. “We need teamwork to increase volume and strengthen our international presence,” she stated.
Eden Chase is not only focusing on blueberries; they also plan to expand into melons and potentially gooseberries. They see Malaysia as a strategic market for growth, particularly as it serves as a hub for Southeast Asia.
Madziva highlighted Zimbabwe’s competitive edge in blueberries, noting their superior taste, which is due to higher sugar content. The company also plans to explore value-added products, like melon smoothies and juices.
ZimTrade, an organization supporting Zimbabwean exporters, is committed to following up on leads from MIHAS and fostering relationships with international buyers. CEO Allan Majuru emphasized the importance of building trust to boost Zimbabwe’s export industries.
