Sundaymail Editor
Ivan Zhakata
Online Correspondent
THE European Union (EU) has returned to the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) for the third consecutive year, unveiling an expanded pavilion and a bold push for increased investment and trade partnerships under its global gateway strategy.
Fresh off back-to-back wins for Best and Most Outstanding Foreign Display, the EU’s presence at this year’s fair is its most ambitious yet—highlighted by the announcement of the first-ever EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum, scheduled for May 20 to May 22, 2025 in Harare.
“The EU is excited to return to ZITF this year with a strengthened focus on private sector engagement,” said EU Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann.
“Private sector development is vital for job creation, economic growth and prosperity.”
Themed “Silani, Tinemi, EU With You,” this year’s campaign casts the spotlight on inclusive, sustainable business development, a goal that mirrors Zimbabwe’s own Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
With this alignment, the EU aims to position itself not just as a development partner but as a catalyst for private-sector-driven economic transformation.
The EU Pavilion is showcasing contributions from several member states including France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Romania, the Netherlands, Portugal and Belgium.
Businesses, NGOs and cultural organisations from across Europe are also represented offering a range of trade, finance and development opportunities.
The EU has also extended over €90 million in financial support to Zimbabwe’s private sector over the past three years via the European Investment Bank and Proparco.
The financing includes intermediate credit facilities, portfolio guarantees and trade finance, aimed at strengthening local lending institutions and improving access to capital.
With Zimbabwe enjoying a positive trade balance with the EU—its fifth-largest trading partner and the number one destination for its horticultural exports—the bloc is pushing to further unlock trade potential.
Under the EU-Zimbabwe Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), local businesses can export to the EU 100 percent duty-free and on a quota-free basis, while importing European machinery tax-free to boost their manufacturing capabilities.
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