Online Reporter
Business Reporter
ZIMBABWE is set to capitalise on the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, which begins today, to showcase its economic potential, anchored in vast mineral resources, abundant tourist attractions and a business-friendly environment.
Running up to October 13, 2025, the expo will bring together stakeholders from across the world to highlight innovation, culture and technological advancements.
Zimbabwe is among the 170 countries participating and is exhibiting under the national theme “Beyond the Limits”.
A key component of Zimbabwe’s presence at the expo will be the Business Forum scheduled for July 15, where local companies and other institutions will engage with potential investors. The following day has been designated as Zimbabwe National Day, and President Mnangagwa is expected to attend as guest of honour.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira said Zimbabwe can attract substantial foreign investment at the expo.“Zimbabwe is participating in this international expo to showcase its offerings and raise global awareness about what is available in our country,” he said.
“Zimbabwe possesses excellent human capital and natural resources; notably, 20 percent of our land is designated for tourism parks. We also benefit from a favourable climate for agricultural production, with all essential raw materials for an industrialising country readily available in Zimbabwe. “Thanks to these endowments, Zimbabwe’s exports have soared from US$2 billion in 2017 to over US$7 billion in 2024.
“This trajectory indicates a growing economy, and everyone seeks to invest in a developing market with potential.”
The country, he said, has a robust institutional framework designed to promote trade and investment.
“We have institutional infrastructure intended to foster trade, including organisations like ZimTrade and ZIDA (Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency), as well as the Ministries of Tourism and Hospitality; and Industry and Commerce.
“All these efforts are supported by a solid legal framework that facilitates investment.
“We are diligently working to ensure that Zimbabwe effectively responds to investment inquiries,” he added.
Participation is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including increased trade, investment, tourism and international visibility.According to projections, Zimbabwe’s participation could result in a 15 percent rise in tourist arrivals, a 10 percent annual increase in trade deals and a similar rise in registered investment agreements.
The country also expects improved international recognition and stronger brand positioning in the global marketplace.
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Japan Mr Stewart Nyakotyo said the country was ready for the expo following a successful trial run of pavilion displays from April 4 to 6.
“Zimbabwe will utilise its presence at Osaka to connect with the world and foster international cooperation,” said Amb Nyakotyo. The expo is an opportunity for Zimbabwe to market itself as a destination of choice for trade, investment, mining, innovation and tourism, and to foster strategic partnerships in areas such as education and agricultural development.”
Participation at Expo 2025 Osaka allows Zimbabwe to showcase its economic potential, draw foreign investment and explore new markets for its diversified economy.
The expo serves as a convenient venue for local businesses to connect with potential investors, partners and customers worldwide.
By highlighting its comparative advantages, such as rich natural resources, a skilled workforce and strategic location, Zimbabwe can attract significant foreign investment, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
Moreover, the event presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to diversify its economy by promoting non-traditional exports, including horticultural products, crafts and tourism services.
By showcasing its unique products and services, Zimbabwe can enhance its export earnings, reduce dependence on traditional exports and improve its economic resilience.
Expo 2025 Osaka is envisaged to give Zimbabwe a unique chance to promote its investment offerings to a global audience.
Organised by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the expo will run for 184 days and is expected to attract around 28 million visitors.
This is the second time Osaka hosts the World Expo, the first being in 1970.
The event also marks a return to the traditional five-year cycle after the 2020 edition was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
