The 2025 edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is set to open next Monday, with organisers confirming that all exhibition space has been fully booked, underscoring growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s trade and investment prospects. Running from April 21 to 26 at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City in Bulawayo, this year’s trade showcase has drawn a remarkable 596 direct exhibitors—including 112 first-time participants—and attracted strong international interest from 28 countries.
ZITF 2025 is themed the “Blue Sapphire” edition, reflecting a bold, futuristic outlook that aligns with Zimbabwe’s economic aspirations. The fair will be officially opened by the President of Mozambique, Mr Daniel Chapo, further highlighting the regional diplomatic and economic importance of the event. His presence will be complemented by local and international dignitaries, business leaders, diplomats, and thousands of visitors expected to converge in Bulawayo.
ZITF Company Board Chairperson Mr Busisa Moyo announced on Wednesday that all 51,204.62 square meters of available exhibition space had been taken up. In response to overwhelming demand, additional space has been created beyond traditional exhibition zones to accommodate more exhibitors and enhance sectoral diversity.
“This year’s participation is not only significant in quantity but also in quality. We are seeing new partnerships, innovative technologies, and investment-ready projects being showcased. ZITF continues to anchor Zimbabwe’s re-engagement efforts with the global community,” said Mr Moyo.
Among the 596 direct exhibitors, 45 are from outside Zimbabwe, representing a diverse range of 28 countries—a jump from 27 in 2024. The return of strong regional players like South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia is complemented by business delegations from India and Ethiopia, signalling renewed international confidence in Zimbabwe’s market.
To bolster this growing engagement, the British Embassy will host the official welcome cocktail—a gesture that not only marks deepening ties but also reflects Zimbabwe’s shifting diplomatic dynamics. “We are positioning ZITF as a platform for both economic and diplomatic re-engagement. This is key for building machinery supply partnerships, promoting skills transfer, and opening up new trade corridors,” added Moyo.
A new highlight of this year’s ZITF is the introduction of the Rural Industrialisation Conference on April 22, spearheaded by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. The initiative aims to integrate rural communities into the country’s industrial framework and promote inclusive, grassroots-based economic growth in line with Vision 2030.
As exhibitors begin setting up their stands, the energy is palpable. For many, ZITF 2025 is more than a trade fair—it is a reflection of Zimbabwe’s resilience, its pivot toward technology-driven development, and a strategic declaration that the country is open for business.
With preparations nearing completion and anticipation building, ZITF 2025 is poised to be one of the most vibrant, impactful trade fairs in recent memory—reinforcing Zimbabwe’s vision for a connected, sustainable, and industrialised economy.
