Melting pot of ideas as ZITF roars to life

IT is a melting pot of ideas as the 64th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) enters day two in Bulawayo following its grand opening yesterday, ushering in a new phase for trade and industrial links across various sectors.

Running from April 23 to April 27, this premier event is themed “Innovation: The Catalyst for Industrialisation and Trade” and it promises to be a melting pot of ideas, products and partnerships that are set to drive economic growth and development.

This year’s international trade showcase boasts 624 exhibitors and 136 of them are participating for the first time, a confirmation that the country continues to attract new potential investors because of its conducive business environment.

This year’s edition is particularly notable for its international reach as 27 countries are showcasing their industries and innovations.

South Korea marks its debut at the ZITF as it joins other leading nations like Belarus and China, the latter bringing a significant contingent of 40 companies.

Parallel to the ZITF, the Bulawayo Agricultural Show is taking place, which complements the trade fair by highlighting the agricultural advancements and opportunities within the region.

In addition to the exhibitions, the International Business Conference (IBC) is a key feature of the ZITF, with around 600 delegates expected to attend the conference today.

Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga will officially open the IBC, which provides a comprehensive platform for networking, knowledge exchange and the cultivation of potential business and industrial partnerships.

As the trade fair rolls on, there is high optimism that this gathering will not only reinforce existing business connections but also forge new ones, catalysing further industrialisation and enhancing trade capacities across the board.-chronicleolzw