Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
FOREIGN exhibitors at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair have said the 2026 edition is already yielding meaningful engagements, with many expressing optimism about forging strategic partnerships in line with the trade showcase’s theme: “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries”, which they described as a timely catalyst for regional and global integration.
The premier trade showcase has attracted 31 countries and over 700 exhibitors, transforming the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre into a vibrant hub of diplomatic and economic activity.
For many international participants, the fair is not just an exhibition space but a strategic platform to build economic linkages among East, West and Southern Africa.
Exhibitors said the theme resonates strongly with their business models, particularly in promoting cross-border collaboration, industrial competitiveness and economic integration.
The Embassy of Kenya in Zimbabwe, which has returned with a significantly larger presence this year, hailed the theme as a reflection of its own national development strategy.
Speaking at the Kenyan pavilion, head of chancery Ms Justine Ikumiru emphasised that connectivity is the bedrock of industrial competitiveness.
“This year’s theme resonates with us because Kenya is the gateway to Africa through the ports of Mombasa and Lamu,” she said.
“We expect to build strong networks and secure business deals, including signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with SMEs.
“We’re looking forward to making lasting contacts with many Kenyan companies. Our goal is to connect the Kenyan and Zimbabwean economies.”
Ms Ikumiru said Kenya envisions a fully integrated continent anchored on strong regional blocs.
Shefurther noted that connectivity extends beyond physical infrastructure to digital and financial ecosystems.
The spirit of competition and industrial growth is also evident in the manufacturing sector. From Asia, Indonesian firm PT Wings Surya is actively seeking local partners to distribute fast-moving consumer goods.
“We are manufacturers from Indonesia producing FMCG products such as detergents, noodles and coffee.
“We are using this opportunity to look for partners here in Zimbabwe,” said the company’s Export Officer, Mr Anthony Timothy.
“Our products are already available in more than 100 countries, and we are really excited to find the right partner here to expand our footprint.”
Regional collaboration in the education sector is also taking centre stage, with Botwana’s Ba Isago University seeking to deepen academic and skills development linkages.
The institution is utilising ZITF to strengthen bilateral ties through what it describes as the “export of knowledge”.
Ba Isago University senior marketing and communications officer Mr Kabo Komanyane said connected economies require a shared pool of skilled human capital.
“Botswana is currently moving towards ‘TVETisation’ (Technical and Vocational Education and Training). We know Zimbabwe is very strong in TVET, and we are here to learn from their policies, programmes and industrial setups,” he said.
He invited Zimbabwean students to explore opportunities in Botswana, noting that the university allows enrolment for O-Level holders, thereby strengthening educational linkages between the two countries.
From the SADC region, Malawian exhibitors such as Chambaika Milling Company are showcasing how diverse industries — ranging from agriculture to textiles — can thrive through cross-border trade.
