Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
NATIONAL trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade, will support eight small businesses from various sectors to exhibit under its pavilion at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
The exhibition will run from April 20 to 25 at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City (Zices) in Bulawayo under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries”.
In its March newsletter, ZimTrade said for one small scale honey producer from rural Mutare, the prospect of exhibiting before regional buyers and showcasing products alongside established exporters had once seemed an unattainable dream.
For the participating businesses, the journey to the exhibition floor has been characterised by preparation, mentorship and transformation, underpinned by ZimTrade’s commitment to ensuring export growth is inclusive and far reaching.
ZimTrade will take part in ZITF 2026 under the sub-theme “Exports Driving Connected and Competitive Economies”, which will highlight how these enterprises have been empowered to grow their export potential.
“When ZITF 2026 opens its doors, eight businesses, drawn from youth led enterprises, women owned companies, and rural clusters, will take their place at the ZimTrade pavilion. The participating companies represent a diverse range of sectors, each bringing a unique story of Zimbabwean ingenuity.
“Among them are agro- processors offering honey and chilli products that capture the richness of the country’s soils. Fresh horticultural producers will showcase hydroponically grown strawberries and lettuce chips, demonstrating the innovation emerging from Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector,” reads the newsletter.
ZimTrade said leather goods and high end customised clothing will showcase the craftsmanship of local artisans, while handcrafted woven baskets will reflect traditions passed down through generations.
What unites these enterprises is their shared aspiration to enter international trade. ZITF will provide a key platform for them to gain insights into how trade fairs operate, sharpen their negotiation skills and expand their businesses within the domestic market.
The exposure is seen as a critical step towards accessing new markets, establishing buyer relationships and converting market interest into tangible export orders.
ZimTrade said it has undertaken extensive preparatory work to ensure each exhibitor is adequately equipped to engage effectively at the fair.
The trade promotion body has conducted company visits to assess product readiness, branding alignment and export positioning.
These targeted engagements are intended to identify gaps, strengthen product presentation and build the confidence of entrepreneurs preparing to participate on a national exhibition platform for the first time.
