HARARE — Zimbabwe’s economy is rebounding faster than expected in 2025, supported by a recovery in agriculture, solid mining performance and easing inflation under a stable exchange rate, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Thursday.
An IMF staff team led by Wojciech Maliszewski visited Zimbabwe from October 29 to November 5 as part of its regular engagement with the government and other stakeholders.
“The IMF mission held productive discussions with the Zimbabwean authorities on recent economic developments and the 2026 budget framework,” Maliszewski said in a statement at the end of the visit.
“Zimbabwe’s economic recovery in 2025 is stronger than previously anticipated, given the rebound in agriculture and solid performances in mining, while inflation has continued to significantly ease, supported by a stable foreign exchange rate. The economy is expected to maintain strong momentum in 2026,” he said.
Talks in Harare focused on reinforcing fiscal discipline in the 2026 budget by aligning spending with revenues and sustainable, non-inflationary financing sources. The IMF urged authorities to avoid accumulating expenditure arrears and to adopt credible revenue projections supported by concrete policy and administrative tax measures.
“In the context of the requested Staff Monitored Programme, IMF staff stand ready to resume discussions upon progress toward addressing key policy issues highlighted in the Article IV consultations, including aligning the 2026 budget with the objective of sustaining macroeconomic stability,” Maliszewski said.
The mission met with Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, Reserve Bank Governor John Mushayavanhu and other officials.
“The IMF team wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the Zimbabwean authorities and all counterparts for their warm hospitality, open dialogue, and excellent cooperation throughout the mission,” the statement said. – ZimLive
