Theseus Shambare

EXPORT earnings from Zimbabwe’s crocodile farming industry rose from US$32 million to US$36 million over the past two years, driven by improved skin quality and expanding international markets.

Officials say the sector has potential to hit US$100 million.

Overall, the Government has a plan to grow aquaculture into a US$1 billion sector.

Speaking at the launch of a partnership between local firm Fin Fish Suppliers and Danish feed producer Aller Aqua, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said Zimbabwe is 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,” he said.

The Crocodile Farmers Association of Zimbabwe says the industry maintains a large pool of maturing animals.

The number of rearers jumped to 121 847 in 2024, up from 54 060 in 2023, while yearlings rebounded to 89 569, indicating a strong production pipeline.

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

“We must also be able to compete with other producers from America and other countries so that we get the best returns from our local crocodile skin production,” said Deputy Minister Marapira.

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 revenue of US$45,9 million, up 6 percent from the same period last year, while exports of 24 391 premium-grade Nile crocodile skins represented a 10 percent increase compared to last year.

Average skin prices rose 8 percent, reflecting higher quality and stronger demand from European luxury brands.

Padenga Agribusiness (Private) Limited chairperson Mr Thembinkosi Sibanda said the positive trajectory demonstrates resilience and renewed investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s exotic leather industry.

“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 Mr Sibanda.

“According to our half-year report, we achieved growth in both revenue and average pricing and our beneficiation investments are starting to yield tangible results.”

He said Padenga is prioritising value addition and beneficiation, transforming more of its skins into finished leather locally.

They believe the next phase of growth lies in processing more of their skins locally into finished leather for export.

“This enhances export earnings, creates skilled jobs and strengthens rural economies while ensuring Zimbabwe remains competitive in the global luxury supply chain,” said Mr Sibanda.

Crocodile farming is one of Zimbabwe’s most successful wildlife-based industries, operating under the country’s sustainable use policy.

It supports hundreds of jobs in the Zambezi Valley and Lowveld, where conditions are ideal for breeding.

Deputy Minister Marapira said Government will continue to support the sector through research, market development and adherence to international standards.

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

With improved quality, rising global demand and strong financial performance, the crocodile sector is firmly on track to become a US$100 million export industry within the next few years.