While the country’s exports were $344 988 758 to March, imports stood at $497 473 358, the statistics body added.
The trade deficit declined from $745, 2 million in corresponding period last year, when the country exported goods worth $813, 7 million against imports worth $1,5 billion.
South Africa (SA) remained the country’s main trade partner accounting for $240 934 303 in imports, while Botswana and China totalled over $23 million each.
India accounted for $20 572 204 of the total imports, while Zambia stood $16 147 907.
On exports, SA absorbed $219 628 432 worth of goods, China $39 927 578, the United Arab Emirates $20 187 234 and Italy $9 843 860.
On the other hand, Botswana imported $3 028 436 worth of commodities from Harare, while Malawi, and Mozambique took $2 145 722, $1 966 634 and $1 891 512 respectively.
Zimbabwe remains a net importer largely from SA due to a struggling industry operating at 43% mainly for its food and raw materials.
The figures also come as Finance Minister Tendai Biti has said the country remains short on real revenue against projected collections.
Post published in: Business