Global interest soars for ZITF 2025: Show extends to six days

The annual event, organised by the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company, serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Zimbabwe’s potential in the global marketplace. This year’s theme is “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape.”
Oliver Kazunga-Senior Business Reporter

The 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), set to take place in Bulawayo from April 21 to 26, has already garnered significant international interest. Organisers have confirmed participation from 10 countries so far and are aiming to surpass last year’s total of 26 participating nations.

The annual event, organised by the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company, serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Zimbabwe’s potential in the global marketplace. This year’s theme is “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape.”

“Interest in the 2025 ZITF has been exceptionally strong,” said Dr Nicholas Ndebele, general manager of the ZITF Company.

“We have already secured 251 direct exhibitors occupying 35,714 square meters of exhibition space, and registration is still ongoing.”

Dr. Ndebele highlighted the diverse international representation, with confirmed participation from Canada, the European Union, Egypt, Japan, Pakistan, South Africa, Tanzania, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

Last year’s ZITF saw 100 percent exhibition space occupancy, with 624 direct exhibitors compared to 565 in 2023.

The number of participating countries also increased from 21 to 26, including nations such as Brazil, Eswatini, North Korea, Namibia, Romania, and Indonesia. The event also witnessed a rise in first-time exhibitors, from 103 in 2023 to 136 last year, leading to the need for additional tent space to accommodate all participants.

In a significant development, the ZITF Company has extended the trade fair from five to six days for the 2025 edition. This decision, endorsed by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, aims to provide more opportunities for business and networking among exhibitors, stakeholders, and visitors.

Dr Ndebele explained that this six-day format is being introduced on a trial basis.

“This move aims to provide more opportunities for business and networking among exhibitors, stakeholders, and visitors,” Dr Ndebele stated.

“The decision to expand the event was made following careful consideration and has been endorsed by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.”

The shift in schedule will see business-focused activities taking place from Monday to Wednesday, while the public can enjoy the exhibitions and related activities from Thursday to Saturday.-ebsinessweekl