According to Zimbabwean media, citrus plantations for export are being built along the Mupfure River in the Chegutu region of Zimbabwe to meet the export quota of 50,000 tons to China.

Former Zimbabwean ambassador to China Christopher Mutsvangwa said in his speech that an agreement has been reached with China to export 50,000 tons of citrus to China every year. While other areas, such as Beitbridge, also grow citrus fruit in large quantities, the newly opened Chegutu area will supplement the needs of established growing areas.

According to reports, Zimbabwe's citrus production ranks 53rd in the world, lagging behind Mexico, Brazil, India and the Philippines. Citrus production in Zimbabwe has been growing steadily in recent years and is expected to increase to nearly 150,000 tons in 2026.

Zimbabwean citrus will gain access to the Chinese market on July 1, 2022. On May 30 this year, the customs added that it "allows Zimbabwean fresh citrus to be exported to China to undergo cold treatment during transportation through a third country." In June, Zimbabwe said it was preparing to export fresh citrus to China for the first time, and it was also negotiating with China on the access of blueberries, avocados and peppers.