Zimbabwe's crocodile product exports surge

Published: 3 hours ago

Zimbabwe's crocodile farming industry has recorded strong growth, with export earnings rising from US$32 million to US$36 million over the past two years, driven by improved skin quality and expanding international markets.

Government officials say the sector could soon become a US$100 million industry, bolstered by ongoing investments in production and value addition.

Speaking at the launch of a partnership between Fin Fish Suppliers and Danish feed producer Aller Aqua, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said Zimbabwe was positioning itself among the world's leading producers of premium crocodile skins.

"From US$32 million in the last 24 months, we have gone up to US$36 million on export of skins, and this figure does not even include crocodile meat, which contributes slightly above US$1 million in local consumption and exports," said Marapira.

According to the Crocodile Farmers Association of Zimbabwe, the number of rearers rose sharply to 121 847 in 2024, up from 54 060 in 2023, while yearlings increased to 89 569, reflecting a robust production pipeline.

Zimbabwean crocodile skins are prized internationally for their softness, fine scales and durability, with major export destinations including France, Italy and Japan, key centres for luxury leather manufacturing.

Padenga Holdings' half-year report to June 2025 shows that crocodile operations remain the backbone of the country's exotic leather exports. The company recorded US$45,9 million in revenue, up 6 percent year-on-year, while exports of 24 391 premium-grade Nile crocodile skins rose by 10 percent. Average skin prices climbed 8 percent, reflecting stronger global demand and improved quality.

Padenga Agribusiness chairperson Thembinkosi Sibanda said the growth underscores the sector's resilience and investor confidence.

"Demand for premium skins remains strong across high-end markets, and our focus on product quality, ethical farming and sustainability has continued to pay off," said Sibanda.
"Our beneficiation investments are beginning to yield tangible results, and we are prioritising local processing of skins into finished leather to enhance value addition."

Deputy Minister Marapira said the Government will continue to support the sector through research, market development and adherence to international standards, adding that value addition was key to maximising export earnings.

"We want to see more value addition through local processing of skins into high-end products before export," he said.

Crocodile farming remains one of Zimbabwe's most successful wildlife-based industries, supporting hundreds of jobs in the Zambezi Valley and Lowveld.

With growing demand, improved quality standards, and rising exports, Zimbabwe's crocodile industry is firmly on track to becoming a US$100 million export powerhouse in the next few years.
- the herald

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