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The Government has urged international diplomats and trade representatives to support the 65th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which is set for April 21 to 26 in Bulawayo.
Speaking at a pre-event engagement meeting this morning, Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi, representing Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu, emphasised the vital role that diplomacy plays in attracting international exhibitors, investors, and business delegations.
“Your role in positioning Zimbabwe as a premier trade and investment destination is indispensable,” he said.
Under the theme “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape,” ZITF 2025 will showcase Zimbabwe’s economic potential, investment incentives, and strategic location within SADC, COMESA, and AfCFTA.
Minister Ndlovu said Zimbabwe offers vast opportunities in mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, with tax incentives, duty exemptions, and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) attracting investors.
He also urged diplomats to market ZITF 2025, mobilise trade delegations, and support Zimbabwe’s growth efforts.
“Zimbabwe is on a path of industrialisation and trade expansion. We need your support to create jobs and strengthen global partnerships,” he said.
The Government anticipates a strong international presence at ZITF 2025. Our Reporter Blessings Chidhakwa is attending this meeting and will provide live coverage.
ZITF urges stronger economic ties ahead of 65th edition
The ZITF has urged the diplomatic community to strengthen trade ties and investment ahead of ZITF 2025.
Speaking at a diplomatic breakfast meeting this morning, ZITF company chairman Mr Busisa Moyo said retooling industries and securing financing are top concerns for businesses.
“As a meal nourishes our bodies, collaboration strengthens our economy,” Mr Moyo said. “Industry leaders are focused on mechanisation for scale and efficiency, as well as securing finance for operations and infrastructure.”
Mr Moyo said this year’s Blue Sapphire Edition, marking 65 years of ZITF, will focus on industrialisation and value addition to reduce reliance on raw material exports.
He highlighted Zimbabwe’s booming agricultural exports, including tea, coffee, and blueberries, and called for more regional and international participation at ZITF.
“ZITF has always been a platform to drive economic growth. We urge diplomats to encourage companies from their nations to participate, forging new partnerships with Zimbabwean businesses,” he said.
The ZITF chairman said with increased regional engagement, this year’s fair aims to be a key driver of economic transformation.
Top officials in attendance
Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu, represented by Deputy Minister Raj Modi
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Dr Thomas Utete Wushe,
ZITF chairman, Mr Busisa Moyo
ZITF chief executive officer, Dr Nicholas Ndebele
Diplomats drawn from the continent and beyond, including EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe and the UAE Ambassador to Zimbabwe, among others.
Participating countries on the increase
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is one of the continent’s premier trade showcases, attracting both local and international exhibitors and visitors every year.
Twenty-four international exhibitors from 17 countries have confirmed their participation at this year’s 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.
This is an increase from the 13 countries that participated in Zimbabwe’s premier annual trade exhibition last year.
Officials confirmed that preparations had gathered momentum for this year’s event.
The increase in the number of participating nations at the trade showpiece is evidence of the success of the Government’s engagement and re-engagement drive.
Organisers said to date, 47 140.87 square metres of the available space, representing 95,2 percent of the total, had been taken up by direct exhibitors.
Online Reporter