THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has unveiled the 2026 theme for the annual trade showcase, which is set to run from 20 to 25 April 2026 at the Zimbabwe Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES) in Bulawayo.
The theme; “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries”, sets the stage for next year’s edition, signalling a strong push toward regional integration and industrial competitiveness.
In a statement, ZITF Company chief executive officer (CEO), Dr Nicholas Ndebele said the 2026 edition theme underscores the show’s strategic role in advancing Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the continental industrialization agenda.
“By fostering value addition, regional value chains, and infrastructure development, ZITF 2026 seeks to accelerate Africa’s transformation into a globally competitive business hub.
“We are excited to advise that the ZITF 2026 theme is ‘Connected Economies, Competitive Industries’ which is a theme that speaks to the importance of integration, regional trade, cross-border collaboration and supply chain connectivity,” he said.
“The theme reflects the goal of building resilient, export-ready sectors and aligns with the aspirations behind the Africa Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), NDS2, and the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy (ZNIDP), while inviting international partners to engage with Africa’s industrial rise. As such, we are seeing ZITF 2026 serving as a launchpad for transformative partnerships that strengthen regional industries and elevate Africa’s position as a leading global business destination.”
He said following the record-breaking success of ZITF 2025, which attracted over 800 exhibitors from 30 countries, the 2026 edition of the ZITF promises an even more impactful experience.
Dr Ndebele said they will ramp up private-sector participation, particularly the manufacturing sector whose contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) has surged to 15 percent, expand international footprint, increase youth participation and enhance visitor experience.
ZITF Company marketing and corporate communications manager Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo
ZITF Company Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo said during the trade showcase, the key business days (20 to 22 April) will provide concentrated opportunities for high-level conferencing, networking, deal-making, and B2B engagement.
“ZITF 2026 will offer businesses the unique platform to showcase innovations, forge strategic alliances and access new markets and we are calling on the business community to take advantage of the show especially in positioning their products and services for the regional and international market.”
He said exhibitors have already started booking their participation in ZITF 2026 on the ZITF digital platform where they are able to indicate the amount of space they need, preferred exhibition stand location, orientation and furniture needs.
Mr Nkomo said they were confident that they will have an even bigger and better show that meets the business needs of exhibitors, buyers, consumers and all economic players who will participate in the exhibition.
On registration, he invited businesses and industry leaders to register as exhibitors for ZITF 2026.
“On exhibitor advantage, exhibitors are strongly encouraged to utilise the early bird advantage by registering now at:
https://www.zitfevents.com/13/request-for-quotation. While on visitor access, visitors can enjoy free entry on business day by pre-registering online at: https://www.zitfevents.com/”
Established over 65 years ago, the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is an exhibition showcase that provides a platform for national, regional and international trade across sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, tourism, and services.
Held over six days, ZITF is Zimbabwe’s premier international trade show headlined by the International Business Conference (IBC) and the Connect Africa Symposium which feature keynote speakers and industry experts providing valuable insights on trade and investment.
Exhibitors at the showcase display goods, services and innovations driving the future of trade, business and socio-economic development locally and internationally.-herald
