Zimbabwe’s Dinson Iron and Steel Company achieved nearly $100 million in first-half sales, significantly reducing the country’s steel import dependence while boosting domestic manufacturing capacity and economic activity.
The $1.5 billion Manhize plant now produces 600,000 tonnes annually of pig iron, billets, and rebars for local, regional, and international markets. This production capacity positions Zimbabwe as Southern Africa’s emerging steel manufacturing hub, competing with established producers in South Africa and Botswana.
“We made $100 million in sales during the first half, saving the country substantial revenue on steel imports,” stated Chief Executive Benson Xu. The locally-produced steel already supplies major infrastructure projects, including the Lake Gwayi-Shangani Dam, demonstrating product quality and reliability.
Economic analysts project the plant’s operations could contribute 2.1% to Zimbabwe’s GDP while creating approximately 15,000 direct and indirect jobs across the value chain. The facility’s strategic location enables cost-effective distribution throughout the Southern African Development Community region.
The plant utilizes ferrochrome and coke from related Tsingshan Group operations, creating an integrated production ecosystem that enhances operational efficiency and cost competitiveness. This vertical integration model reduces input costs by an estimated 18% compared to importing raw materials.
President Mnangagwa’s administration has created supportive business environments that attract foreign direct investment, with the steel sector receiving priority under Zimbabwe’s industrialization strategy. The success demonstrates the country’s potential for large-scale manufacturing operations.
Regional steel demand projections indicate 12% annual growth through 2028, driven by infrastructure development and construction activities. Zimbabwe’s enhanced production capacity positions it to capture significant market share while reducing regional import dependence.
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