By Dennis Ndlovu | Zim GBC News
The organisers of Zimbabwe’s largest international trade exhibition have announced a theme for its 2026 edition aimed at strengthening regional business ties and industrial capacity across Africa.
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), scheduled for 20-25 April next year, will run under the banner Connected Economies, Competitive Industries.
In a press statement, ZITF Company Chief Executive Dr Nicholas Ndebele said the theme was a direct response to continental development goals.
“The theme reflects the goal of building resilient, export-ready sectors and aligns with the aspirations behind the Africa Free Trade Area (AFCFTA),” Dr Ndebele stated.
He further framed the upcoming fair as a critical meeting point for international investment.
“We are seeing ZITF 2026 serving as a launchpad for transformative partnerships that strengthen regional industries and elevate Africa’s position as a leading global business destination,” he added.
The announcement follows what the company called a record-breaking 2025 edition, which attracted over 800 exhibitors from 30 countries.
For the 2026 event, Dr Ndebele outlined specific growth targets.
“We will ramp up private-sector participation, particularly the manufacturing sector whose contribution to GDP has surged to 15%, expand our international footprint, increase youth participation, and enhance visitor experience,” he said.
This detailed declaration signals a focused effort to bolster tangible economic output and engage younger demographics in trade.
Thandolwenkosi Nkomo, the ZITF Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, emphasised the practical opportunities for businesses.
“ZITF 2026 will offer businesses the unique platform to showcase innovations, forge strategic alliances, and access new markets,” he explained. This statement highlights the core commercial function of the fair as a catalyst for deals and expansion.
Mr Nkomo also reported strong early interest from potential exhibitors, who are already securing space via a digital portal.
“We are confident that we will have an even bigger and better show that meets the business needs of exhibitors, buyers, consumers, and all economic players,” he said, projecting optimism and aiming to generate momentum ahead of the event.
Founded over 65 years ago, the ZITF is a cornerstone event on Zimbabwe’s economic calendar, encompassing sectors from agriculture and mining to tourism and services.
The organisers are urging businesses to register early online to secure prime exhibition space, while visitors can pre-register for free entry during the key business days from 20-22 April.
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