Story by Mhlomuli Ncube, Assistant News Editor
THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) says the 2026 edition of the annual trade showcase is expected to deliver record business returns as organisers and Government intensify efforts to boost trade, attract foreign investment and integrate young people into global commerce.
The 66th edition of the ZITF will run from April 20 to April 25, at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo.
Organisers say the forthcoming edition will be larger and more impactful than previous years, building on the growing international profile of the trade fair and its role as Zimbabwe’s flagship business exhibition.
Running under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” ZITF 2026 will place strong emphasis on innovation, value-chain development and regional and global economic integration.
A major highlight of the upcoming fair will be the Youth in Business Festival, which is expected to create new platforms for young entrepreneurs to connect with international markets, investors and industry leaders.
ZITF Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nicholas Ndebele, said the deliberate inclusion of young people reflects the fair’s long-term vision of building a sustainable and inclusive business ecosystem.
“This is important for us because the youth are not only critical in today’s economy, but they are also the future of business. We want to ensure their participation in trade and enterprise continues to grow and that they are meaningfully integrated into global economic activities,” Dr Ndebele said.
Government has expressed confidence that ZITF 2026 will surpass previous editions in both scale and economic impact.
Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu, said preparations are already pointing towards a landmark edition of the fair.
“If people thought last year’s edition was impressive, they should expect something even bigger in 2026. We are determined to make this edition the best ZITF yet, one that delivers tangible business outcomes,” he said.
Over the years, ZITF has evolved into one of Southern Africa’s largest multi-sectoral trade exhibitions, attracting exhibitors and delegates from Asia, Europe, the Americas and across Africa, while serving as a key platform for trade promotion, investment attraction and industrial development.
