The Government will upgrade the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) to increase its capacity for sector-specific business matchmaking, thereby boosting export growth and attracting targeted investment.
This will be done during the implementation period of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2, 2026-2030), Zimbabwe’s medium-term economic blueprint.
The annual trade exhibition, Zimbabwe’s flagship business and investment showcase, is expected to play an even more strategic role in linking local industries with regional and global markets while strengthening domestic value chains.
National Development Strategy 2
“To strategically boost exports by attracting targeted investment into domestic value chains, the Government will upgrade the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair as well as enhance the platform for sector-specific matchmaking,” reads part of the NDS-2 document.
“This will be extended to embrace other business platforms that host vibrant exhibitions and expos that bring together a diverse array of businesses across the various agro and mineral value chains, such as those by the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society and Mine-Entra.
“These will serve as platforms for businesses to showcase products and services for trade, over and above providing scope for identification of global original equipment manufacturers in priority value chains, such as automotive component makers, to partner with local steel producers.”
The ZITF has, over the years, established itself as a critical pillar of Zimbabwe’s economic architecture, serving as a convergence point for local industry leaders, regional businesses, and international businesspeople.
It offers businesses a unique opportunity to exhibit products and services, forge partnerships, access new technologies and explore export markets.
This year’s edition is scheduled for April 20-25.
Under NDS-2, the enhanced ZITF is expected to move beyond a general exhibition format towards more focused, sector-driven engagements that promote tangible business deals, technology transfer and investment commitments.
This approach aligns with the Government’s broader industrialisation thrust, which prioritises value addition and beneficiation in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing and steel.
By strengthening sector-specific matchmaking, the upgraded ZITF will help local firms integrate into regional and global value chains, improve competitiveness and stimulate sustainable export growth. The exhibition also plays an important role in promoting Zimbabwe as an investment destination, boosting tourism, and supporting small and medium enterprises through exposure to larger markets.
As Zimbabwe accelerates implementation of NDS-2, the revitalised ZITF and complementary platforms such as agricultural and mining expos are set to become central drivers of inclusive economic growth, industrial development and job creation.-herald
