The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Company, which organises the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is pulling all the stops to ensure a great experience for the exhibition’s various stakeholders.
This was revealed by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere in this week’ post-Cabinet briefing.
“As part of preparations for the event, Air Zimbabwe and Fast Jet (airlines) were engaged with the aim to increase flight frequency for exhibitors and visitors and ensuring a positive customer experience,” the Minister revealed.
The Information Minister also informed the media that Government was in the process of engaging various private sector players to increase their participation in the annual international exhibition.
“The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is conducting strategic dialogues with national business member organisations (BMOs) and industry associations to maximize private sector participation and input,” Dr Muswere said.
Turning to other preparations for the event, the government official highlighted that, as of Friday last week, 596 direct exhibitors had registered to participate, compared to 428 who registered during the same period in 2024. He added that of these, 98 were exhibiting for the first time.
“In terms of current space booking situation, 95 percent has been booked to date, compared to 87 percent booked during the same period in 2024. International exhibitor space uptake has increased, with 29 countries having registered. These include: Afghanistan, Angola, Austria, Belarus, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union delegation, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, German, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Netherlands, Pakistan, Rwanda, South Africa, Sweden, Tanzania, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the United Arab Emirates and Zambia. This surpasses 27 participating nations as at 2024. Additionally, India will also be participating,” said Dr Muswere.
Apart from the traditional concurrent events such as the International Business Conference and the Connect Africa Symposium, the exhibition will witness the return of the CBZ Original Equipment Manufacturers displays among others. New events like the Rural Industrialisation Indaba are set to be introduced during this year’s exhibition.
The trade fair, which is set to run under the theme: “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated landscape,” is expected to run from 21 to 26 April. The event is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year and will be officially opened on 25 April by the Mozambican President Daniel Chapo.
