Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
THE 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair generated more than US$600 million in business transactions, confirmed orders and investment leads, underscoring its growing stature as Zimbabwe’s premier trade and investment platform.
Held from April 20–25, at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City in Bulawayo, this year’s showcase attracted more than 800 exhibitors from over 30 countries, reflecting strong international interest in Zimbabwe’s trade and investment opportunities.
Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said preliminary assessments point to significant commercial activity during the six-day event.
“Preliminary analysis indicates that more than US$600 million in business transactions, confirmed orders and leads were generated during the show. In addition, several Memoranda of Understanding were facilitated in priority sectors such as manufacturing and technology. Curated business-to-business sessions also generated high-value leads expected to translate into firm commitments once due diligence processes are completed,” he said.
The 2026 edition also recorded unprecedented demand for exhibition space, exceeding available capacity.
Minister Ndlovu said the fair achieved a 104 percent space utilisation rate, with exhibitors occupying 50 687 square metres against 48 655 square metres available for sale.
To accommodate the overflow, organisers erected a 2 100-square-metre marquee, which housed 105 exhibitors who could not be accommodated in the existing exhibition halls.
Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Company Board Chairperson, Dr Busisa Moyo confirmed that key trade agreements were concluded on the sidelines of the event.
“We are still compiling the final data, but I can confirm that a major agreement was signed. Details will be announced in due course,” he said.
More than 100 new exhibitors participated in this year’s fair, further cementing ZITF’s reputation as a vital marketplace for trade, investment and industrial collaboration.
“This growth reflects robust interest in the event and reaffirms ZITF’s role as a pivotal platform for industry engagement, trade and investment promotion. It remains a serious marketplace where deals are initiated, partnerships are forged, and investment conversations move from intention to execution,” Minister Ndlovu said.
Organisers have already announced dates for next year’s edition, which will run from April 26 to May 1, 2027.
