Zimpapers Logo

Nomathemba Ndlovu

Molline Gagare Business Reporter
AT least 22 direct foreign exhibitors from 16 countries including the United States of America and three from Europe have so far confirmed their participation at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) due end of this month.

European and Asian giants Germany and Japan, which return after a long absence and Poland, have already made bookings, according to the ZITF Company, while about 90 percent of exhibition space has been taken ahead of the prestigious showcase set to run from April 28 to May 2.

ZITF Company general manager, Nomathemba Ndlovu said participation from foreign exhibitors has greatly improved compared to last year with the figures most likely to increase.

“Foreign participation has improved with 22 direct foreign exhibitors having booked which is at par with the booking statistics at this time last year. The participating foreign exhibitors come from the following 16 countries – Botswana, The People’s Republic of China, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Germany, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Pakistan, Poland, South Africa, United States of America and Zambia,” said Ndlovu.

“The figure may increase as we’ve received strong interest from organisations in the following countries; Austria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Congo-Brazzaville, DRC, Ghana, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.”

Last year only 19 foreign countries participated in the trade showcase, which recorded a decline in the number of exhibitors and exhibition space occupancy.

Ndlovu said preparations for the mega festival were at an advanced stage with 90 percent of the space available already having been sold.

“Preparations are now at an advanced stage with many exhibitors putting final touches to their preparation plans. To date, 47,000 square metres, which converts to 90 percent of available space, have been sold,” Ndlovu said.

The figure has already surpassed last year’s occupancy of 44,804 square metres.

She said three mini sector specific expos would also run concurrently with the ZITF 2015 in an effort to further market Zimbabwe.

“A’sambeni Africa Business Tourism Expo focuses on spotlighting Zimbabwe as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conventions and events. It will be housed in Hall Three. Scholastica, the education, careers and training expo will also be in Hall Three while the careers workshops and seminars will be hosted on the Mezzanine Floor in Hall One,” Ndlovu added.

“Ultima8 Home, the home improvement sector expo will be held in Hall One and Pakprint 2015, for printing and packaging industries will be hosted in Hall Four.”

The 56th edition of the ZITF will be officially opened by the President of Zambia, Edgar Lungu on May 1.

Last year, China and South Africa were the biggest foreign exhibitors occupying over 1,000 square metres and 800 metres of space respectively.