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Molline Gagare Business Reporter
ACCREDITATION for the 2015 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) has started in Bulawayo ahead of the prestigious business expo due in three weeks.

The 56th edition of the trade fair will run from April 28 to May 2 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre under the theme “Stimulating Trade, Seizing Opportunities to Accelerate Growth”.

ZITF Company’s marketing and corporate communications officer Doreen Dzamatira yesterday invited local and foreign media practitioners to apply for accreditation to facilitate smooth coverage of the event.

“We once again invite bona-fide journalists, photojournalists, radio and television personnel who will be covering ZITF 2015 for their newspapers, magazines, news agencies, and radio, television or newsreel networks, to complete the attached form and send it back to us. We’ll then be able to issue press passes in advance of the opening date,” said Dzamatira.

“Those who won’t be on the official list will be asked to produce an official press card issued by employers or positive identification of journalistic employment.”

Zambian President Edgar Lungu will be the guest of honour for this year’s fair.

The official opening has been scheduled for April 30 at 2PM while business days would run from April 28-29.

The international business conference will be held on April 29 while the ZITF golf challenge will take place on May 1.

About 90 percent of the space available has already been booked for this year’s trade showcase as stands are being allocated on first come, first served basis upon payment.

Interest in the fair from local and international exhibitors has improved.

Companies representing countries such as Germany, Poland, Pakistan, India, South Africa and Malawi have confirmed their participation in this year’s fair.

The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is one of the largest intra-regional trade fairs south of the Sahara.

It is an annual exhibition which offers exposure to both trade and public visitors. Its location in Bulawayo, the centre of Southern Africa and the crossroads of the regional trade and transportation routes makes it an ideal platform for business.