Source: ZIMSTAT explains revision of February trade figures – herald
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) has clarified the revision of the country’s February 2026 External Trade Statistics and said the adjustment followed the receipt of updated export data after the initial publication of the figures.
In a statement, ZIMSTAT director-general Mrs Tafadzwa Bandama said the February 2026 trade balance has been revised from a previously reported surplus of US$46,5 million to a deficit of US$89,7 million.
She said the revised figures were published in the March 2026 External Trade Statistics Release.
“The revision followed the incorporation of updated and more complete administrative export data received after the initial publication of the February 2026 estimates,” said Mrs Bandama.
“Consequently, export values were revised downward, resulting in the overall trade balance shifting from a surplus to a deficit position.”
She said the revision of trade statistics was a normal and internationally accepted outcome of the data compilation, verification and validation process in external trade statistics.
Mrs Bandama said the process was provided for under the International Merchandise Trade Statistics: Concepts and Definitions 2010 (IMTS 2010) and the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, sixth edition (BPM6).
“As more complete, accurate and updated source data become available, revisions are undertaken to enhance the accuracy, consistency and reliability of official statistics,” she said.
Mrs Bandama said users of trade statistics should understand that revisions are standard international practice conducted in line with provisions of the IMTS 2010 and BPM6 manuals governing the compilation of external trade statistics.
She said ZIMSTAT remain committed to producing official statistics that are credible, reliable, transparent and aligned with international best practices.
The Agency, she added, will continue engaging stakeholders and providing clarification where necessary to promote informed public understanding of official statistics.
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