Story by Yolanda Moyo
THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is set to open next Monday, with all exhibition space fully booked, as organisers confirm participation from nearly 600 direct exhibitors.
This year’s edition, taking place from April 21 to 26 at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City in Bulawayo, has attracted widespread interest.
According to the ZITF Company, all available exhibition space, totalling 51 204.62 square meters, has been taken up.
Addressing the media in Bulawayo this Wednesday, ZITF Board Chairperson Mr Busisa Moyo revealed that the event has drawn 596 direct exhibitors, including 112 new participants.
To accommodate the high demand, additional space has been prepared beyond the traditional exhibition areas.
International presence is also strong, with 45 exhibitors representing 28 countries, up from 27 countries last year.
This year’s show will be officially opened by the President of Mozambique, Mr Daniel Chapo.
The ceremony will be attended by diplomats, local and international business leaders, and members of the public.
Preparations are in full swing, with many exhibitors already setting up their stands.
“To boost international participation, we have reached out to regional partners like South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia. Moving forward, we plan to extend our outreach to other nations with potential for partnerships in machinery supply, skills exchange, and trade alliances. ZITF is central to our diplomatic and economic re-engagement drive,” Mr Moyo said.
He added that the British Embassy is hosting the welcome cocktail, underscoring growing international interest.
Dubbed the “Blue Sapphire” edition, ZITF 2025 will also introduce a Rural Industrialisation Conference on April 22, led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
The initiative aims to integrate rural communities into the country’s industrialisation agenda and promote inclusive economic growth.
Business delegations from India and Ethiopia will also be part of this year’s showcase, aligning with Zimbabwe’s broader economic vision focused on building a connected, sustainable, and tech-driven industrial ecosystem.
