The 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is set to take place from April 21 to 26, 2025, in Bulawayo, with President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique scheduled to officially open the event on April 25.
This was announced by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, during a post-Cabinet media briefing held in Harare.
Running under the theme “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Landscape”, this year’s edition will span six days—an extension from previous years—and is shaping up to be one of the largest yet, with a significant surge in both local and international participation.
Dr Muswere revealed that 596 direct exhibitors had confirmed participation as of April 7, 2025, a notable increase from 428 exhibitors during the same time last year. Among them, 98 are first-time participants, a positive indicator of growing interest in Zimbabwe’s premier trade showcase.
Efforts to enhance accessibility for visitors and participants are also underway. The government has engaged Air Zimbabwe and Fastjet to increase flight frequency during the event, aimed at improving the overall travel experience for both exhibitors and attendees.
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In terms of exhibition space, 95% of available space has already been booked, up from 87% in the same period in 2024. International participation is also on the rise, with 29 countries confirmed—surpassing last year’s figure of 27. Notable participants include China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, the European Union, and several countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
To further strengthen regional and international collaboration, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce is engaging in strategic consultations with industry bodies and business associations to drive more private sector involvement.
A number of major events will complement the exhibition, including the International Business Conference, the Connect Africa Symposium, and the return of the CBZ Original Equipment Manufacturers Forum. Notably, the Rural Industrialisation Indaba will feature for the first time, aligning with the government’s rural development goals.
The expanded scope of ZITF reflects Zimbabwe’s broader diplomatic strategy. Since 2017, the government under President Emmerson Mnangagwa has emphasised economic diplomacy, using platforms like ZITF to boost investment, strengthen trade ties, and enhance the country’s international image.
As part of its preparations, the ZITF Company, the official organiser, has launched regional roadshows in Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. These outreach campaigns are designed to promote the event, build cross-border partnerships, and underscore the benefits of participating in one of Africa’s most established trade expos.
