Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Shop@Zim values your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard data when you use our website, whether as a buyer, supplier, or visitor.

By accessing or using Shop@Zim, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the platform.

2. About Shop@Zim

Shop@Zim is an online export platform operated by ZimTrade, connecting verified Zimbabwean suppliers with international buyers. The platform facilitates engagement and communication between users but does not process sales or payments.

All transactions and negotiations occur outside the platform, with optional facilitation and guidance provided by ZimTrade.

3. Information We Collect

We collect limited personal and company information necessary to facilitate engagement and improve user experience on the platform.

a. Information You Provide Voluntarily

When you use the platform, you may provide:

• Personal details: name, email address, phone number, and job title.
• Company details: business name, address, sector, export products, and website.
• Inquiry information: content of messages or requests for quotation (RFQs) sent to suppliers.
• Feedback or survey responses: if you choose to participate in promotional or feedback activities.

b. Information Collected Automatically

When you visit our site, we may automatically collect:

• IP address and browser type
• Device and operating system information
• Pages visited and duration of visit
• Cookies and analytics data (see our Cookie Policy for details)

4. How We Use Your Information

We use the information collected for the following purposes:

• To connect buyers with verified Zimbabwean suppliers
• To facilitate communication between users
• To verify and publish supplier profiles on the platform
• To improve platform functionality and user experience
• To send updates, announcements, or export-related information (only with your consent)
• To comply with legal or regulatory obligations

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties.

5. Information Sharing and Disclosure

Your information may be shared only in the following cases:

• With Suppliers or Buyers

  When you send or receive an inquiry or RFQ through the platform.

• With Service Providers

  Who help us operate, host, or maintain the website (under strict confidentiality agreements).

• With ZimTrade Partners

  Such as export support agencies or trade promotion partners, for purposes aligned with our mission.

• When Required by Law

  If disclosure is necessary to comply with legal obligations, government requests, or to protect rights and safety.

6. Data Retention

We retain personal and company information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy, or as required by applicable laws and regulations.

Users may request deletion or correction of their data at any time (see Section 9).

7. Data Security

We take reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information against unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure.

These include:

• Secure hosting and encrypted connections (HTTPS)
• Access controls for authorized staff only
• Regular platform monitoring and updates

However, no online system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security of transmitted data.

8. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Shop@Zim may use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, remember preferences, and analyze website performance.

You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings at any time. For more details, please review our separate Cookie Policy.

9. Your Rights

Depending on applicable laws, you have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction or deletion of your data
• Withdraw consent for marketing communication
• Object to processing of your information

To exercise these rights, contact us using the details provided in Section 12.

10. Third-Party Links

Shop@Zim may contain links to external websites. ZimTrade is not responsible for the privacy practices, content, or security of those sites. We encourage users to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites they visit.

11. Updates to This Policy

ZimTrade may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in practices, technology, or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. Continued use of the website after updates indicates your acceptance of the revised policy.

12. Contact Us

If you have any questions, requests, or concerns about this Privacy Policy or your personal data, please contact:

ZimTrade – The National Trade Development and Promotion Organisation

📧 Email: info@zimtrade.co.zw

📞 Phone: +263 (0) 24 2 369 330 – 5

🌐 Website: www.tradezimbabwe.com