HARARE – The Chinese Embassy in Harare has issued a rare and strongly worded advisory to its nationals operating in Zimbabwe, urging them to comply with local laws, respect communities, and avoid involvement in disputes or environmentally harmful practices.
The embassy’s notice — titled “Important Notice to Chinese Nationals: A Reminder on Investment and Business Operations in Zimbabwe” — comes amid growing tensions following a series of incidents involving Chinese investors accused of assaulting workers, unsafe mining operations, and environmental degradation in rural communities.
In recent weeks, several cases have drawn public outrage, including the shooting of a local man in Mutoko allegedly by a Chinese security supervisor at Zhuhe Mining Investments, and the collapse of artisanal mining sites blamed on unsafe methods used by foreign-owned operations.
The embassy’s statement appears to be a response to the mounting criticism. It warns Chinese citizens to “conduct thorough due diligence and risk assessment” before investing, to “adhere strictly to Zimbabwean laws and regulations,” and to “avoid involvement in any ventures that might lead to controversies or disputes.”
It further cautions investors against the illegal possession or misuse of firearms, stressing that “the storage and use of any legally authorised firearms must be managed with the highest level of control and in full compliance with relevant regulations.”
The advisory also urges Chinese businesses to “build trust through community and environmental stewardship”, promoting fair labour practices and compliance with environmental laws.
“Act as a partner in Zimbabwe’s development,” the embassy said. “Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives are strongly encouraged as visible expressions of goodwill. Such proactive efforts foster mutual trust and strengthen community relations.”
The embassy underscored the need for integrity and transparency, warning that bribery and corruption are criminal offenses in both China and Zimbabwe. It encouraged reporting any instances of solicitation or extortion to Zimbabwean law enforcement or the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
Chinese investors are also required to register their operations with the embassy and maintain communication for consular protection.
The advisory reflects growing diplomatic unease over the conduct of some Chinese investors in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, increasingly associated with labour abuses, pollution and community displacement.
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