The Government of Zimbabwe has called on diplomats to play a pivotal role in mobilizing international participation at the 65th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), scheduled for April 21–26, 2025, in Bulawayo.
Addressing the ZITF 2025 Diplomats Engagement Breakfast Meeting on March 19, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon. N. M. Ndlovu, emphasized the crucial link between diplomacy and trade in positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive global investment destination.
Minister Ndlovu highlighted the essential role of diplomatic missions in attracting exhibitors, investors, and business delegations, stating that their advocacy would be instrumental in unlocking Zimbabwe’s vast economic potential.
He underscored that this year’s theme, “Industrialization: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape,” reflects Zimbabwe’s commitment to leveraging trade, investment, and strategic partnerships for sustainable economic transformation.Zimbabwe’s strategic location at the heart of Southern Africa provides access to major regional markets under SADC, COMESA, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
With preferential trade agreements offering duty-free and quota-free access to a market of over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$3.4 trillion, the country presents unparalleled opportunities for foreign businesses.
The Minister outlined Zimbabwe’s natural wealth, including abundant mineral resources such as gold, platinum, lithium, chrome, and diamonds, as well as a robust agricultural sector. He emphasized the need for value addition and beneficiation to maximize returns.
Additionally, he pointed to Zimbabwe’s skilled workforce in engineering, manufacturing, ICT, and finance as a competitive advantage for investors. Highlighting the government’s commitment to political stability and economic reforms, Minister Ndlovu assured investors of a conducive business environment, facilitated by the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA).
Efforts are underway to streamline business processes, protect investor rights, and enhance the ease of doing business. Incentives such as tax breaks, duty exemptions, and preferential trade conditions in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) further reinforce Zimbabwe’s attractiveness as an investment destination.
ZITF, the Minister noted, is more than just an exhibition—it is a vital platform for trade networking, industrial collaboration, and technological advancement. He urged diplomats to actively engage their business communities, chambers of commerce, and investment agencies to ensure strong international participation.
In conclusion, Minister Ndlovu called on the diplomatic corps to market ZITF 2025 globally, facilitate high-level trade delegations, and support Zimbabwe’s vision of becoming a regional trade and industrial hub.
He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s trajectory towards industrialization and economic transformation, stressing the need for international partnerships to drive sustainable development and job creation.
With preparations underway, the government anticipates a successful ZITF 2025, with a strong international presence showcasing Zimbabwe’s economic reforms and growth potential.
