The European Union has removed Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI) from its sanctions list, lifting the last remaining restriction imposed on the country since 2002.
However, the EU has retained its arms embargo on Zimbabwe, citing concerns over the potential use of such equipment for internal repression.
The decision followed a Council of the European Union meeting on Wednesday. In an official statement, the council explained:
“The council today renewed its framework for restrictive measures in view of the situation in Zimbabwe for a further year, until 20 February 2026.
“The council also delisted the last remaining entity, Zimbabwe Defence Industries.
“The embargo on arms and equipment that might be used for internal repression remains in place.
“The EU continues to closely follow developments in Zimbabwe, with particular attention to the human rights situation, and recalls its readiness to adapt the whole range of its policies accordingly.”
The EU clarified that the remaining restrictions are not intended to harm Zimbabwe’s citizens, economy, or trade relations.
Sanctions were initially imposed in 2002 following allegations of election irregularities and human rights violations. Since then, the EU has gradually eased the measures to encourage democratic reforms.
In 2015, the EU provided $267 million in direct aid to Zimbabwe, marking its first financial assistance since the sanctions began.
The bloc also progressively removed sanctions on several government officials and security leaders as part of its support for political progress.
