Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo
Zimpapers Business Hub
NATIONAL trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade, will help eight small businesses from different sectors to exhibit at this year’s International Trade Fair under its pavilion.
This year’s exhibition will run from April 20-25 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 in rural Mutare, the dream of exhibiting before regional buyers and showcasing her products alongside established exporters once felt impossibly distant.
For these businesses, ZimTrade said, the journey to the exhibition floor has been one of preparation, mentorship and transformation, guided by its commitment to ensuring that export growth is inclusive and far-reaching.
ZimTrade will participate in ZITF 2026 under the sub-theme “Exports Driving Connected and Competitive Economies,” narrating how these businesses have been empowered to grow exports.
“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,” reads the newsletter.
“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.”
The organisation said leather products and high-end customised clothing reflect the craftsmanship of local artisans, while handcrafted woven baskets speak to traditions passed down through generations.
What unites these businesses is the journey they are preparing to take in international trade. ZITF will offer a significant platform for them to understand how trade fairs work and a platform for them to sharpen their negotiation skills and expand their businesses locally.
This exposure represents a critical step toward accessing new markets, building buyer relationships, and translating interest into tangible export orders.
ZimTrade has conducted extensive preparatory work to ensure that each exhibitor is ready to engage.
The trade promotion body has conducted company visits to assess product readiness, branding alignment and export positioning.
These intensive engagements are designed to identify gaps, strengthen presentation and build the confidence of entrepreneurs who will be stepping onto a national stage for the first time.
