Exhibition space for the 2026 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is almost fully booked, with organisers saying 97% of the available 51,170 square metres has already been taken up ahead of the event in April.
A total of 485 direct exhibitors have confirmed participation, including 100 leaseholders, according to ZITF chairman Busisa Moyo. He said preparations for the annual trade showcase were on track.
The fair, which runs from 20 April to 25 April 2026 under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries”, will be officially opened by Botswana’s President, Duma Gideon Boko.
Moyo said President Boko’s attendance as Guest of Honour reflects the growing regional profile of the exhibition and its focus on strengthening economic ties.
“The President of the Republic of Botswana will officiate at this year’s Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, reinforcing ZITF’s growing regional and diplomatic stature,” he told a media briefing on Thursday.
He said Botswana’s selection was closely aligned with the fair’s theme, citing longstanding trade links between the two neighbours. Zimbabwe imports a range of goods from Botswana, including salt, while Zimbabwean companies also operate across the border.
Moyo added that visits by heads of state typically attract business delegations and investors. He pointed to previous editions of the fair where visiting leaders were accompanied by trade missions and exhibitors.
Botswana has been among the top contributors to the exhibition in recent years, with companies consistently participating over the past three editions, he said.
International participation at the 2026 event includes 46 exhibitors from 29 countries, among them Belarus, Belgium, Botswana, China, Denmark, Eswatini, Ethiopia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mozambique, Namibia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Sweden, Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Zambia.
Organisers say the strong uptake of space and broad international presence signal renewed confidence in the trade fair as Zimbabwe continues to position it as a regional business platform.