Zimpapers Logo

Nqobile Bhebhe, [email protected]

THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) exhibitions serve as a catalyst for promoting trade, investment, and innovation, aligning with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals, the minister of Industry and Commerce, Mangaliso Ndlovu has said.

Additionally, the annual trade platform serves as a strategic avenue for positioning the country as a dynamic player in the global marketplace.

The annual trade showcase roars into life next week on Tuesday and ends on Saturday. The first three days (April 23 to 25) are business days while April 26 and 27 are public days.

Running under the theme, “Innovation: The Catalyst to Industrialisation and Trade”, the fair will be officially opened by Kenyan President, Dr William Ruto.

Minister Ndlovu said one of ZITF’s success stories is the partnership between the exhibition company and international tech companies to showcase emerging technologies that support industrial growth.

This collaboration has not only attracted foreign investments in the technology sector but also positioned Zimbabwe as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region, he noted.

By adopting economically sound approaches and highlighting success stories, Zimbabwe can further leverage its strengths and opportunities to achieve sustainable economic growth and development.

“The ZITF exhibitions serve as a catalyst for economic development by showcasing trade opportunities, attracting investments, and fostering innovation, all of which are instrumental in advancing Zimbabwe towards its Vision 2030 goals,” said Minister Ndlovu.

“Through these exhibitions, local businesses have the platform to network with international counterparts, explore new markets, and forge strategic partnerships that drive trade growth and economic diversification.

“Moreover, by highlighting investment opportunities in key sectors and encouraging partnerships, the ZITF events stimulate capital inflows, job creation, and industrial development essential for achieving sustainable economic progress.”

Minister Ndlovu said additionally, the emphasis on innovation at these exhibitions fuels creativity, knowledge exchange, and technological advancements, paving the way for enhanced competitiveness and industry advancement in alignment with Vision 2030’s vision for a prosperous and diversified economy.

“ As a cornerstone for trade promotion, investment attraction, and technological innovation, the ZITF exhibitions play a crucial role in propelling Zimbabwe towards its long-term development objectives and positioning the country as a dynamic player in the global marketplace.”

ZITF showcases investment opportunities in Zimbabwe, attracting domestic and foreign investors.

The platform facilitates trade deals between Zimbabwean companies and international buyers, increasing exports which is key for the country’s economic growth.

Added to that ZITF serves as a platform for showcasing technological innovations that can drive industrial growth and it encourages entrepreneurship by providing a platform for new businesses to connect with potential customers and investors.

This year’s exhibition has attracted 27 countries, including the United States, China, Germany, Belarus, Russia and the United Kingdom.

In addition to the trade fair, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga will host the opening of the ZITF Welcome Cocktail and the ZITF International Business Conference on April 24.

The event series will also include the ZITF Charity Golf Challenge, the ZITF Diplomats Forum, and the Connect Africa Symposium.

The Diplomats Forum will explore economic partnerships through entrepreneurship and the Connect Africa Symposium, to be opened by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, will focus on sustainable entrepreneurial strategies across Africa.

The ZITF schedule concludes with the ZNCC Business Lunch on April 26, followed by public exhibition days on April 26 and 27.