The countdown to one of Africa’s premier trade showcases has begun, with excitement building ahead of the 2025 edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), set to take place from 21 to 26 April at the newly upgraded Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City in Bulawayo.
The 65th edition of the ZITF, dubbed the “Blue Sapphire” edition, will run under the theme ‘Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape’, underscoring the crucial role industrial development plays in driving Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
With exhibitors already on site preparing their displays, this year’s event is shaping up to be a blockbuster. A total of 596 direct exhibitors have confirmed participation—completely occupying the traditional exhibition space and spilling into newly established zones. Overall, 51,204.62 square metres of exhibition space has been taken up, with 112 first-time exhibitors among the participants.
Addressing journalists during the final media briefing on Wednesday, ZITF chairman Busisa Moyo confirmed that 45 direct international exhibitors representing 28 countries are expected, up from 27 last year.
“The President of the Republic of Mozambique, Mr Daniel Chapo, will officially open ZITF 2025 on Friday 25 April in a ceremony expected to be attended by members of the diplomatic corps, local and international business leaders, and the wider Zimbabwean public,” he said.
Moyo noted that in recent weeks, the ZITF Company had intensified its preparations through a series of stakeholder engagements—including with hospitality providers, emergency services, and security agencies—all of whom have pledged full readiness for the six-day event.
He also revealed that an entertainment committee has been convening to curate a vibrant programme for visitors throughout the fair, alongside popular exhibitor competitions whose judges are already on standby.
A key highlight of ZITF 2025 is a packed programme of business and networking events designed to create linkages, foster dialogue, and promote innovation.
Activities begin on Monday, 21 April, with a Business-to-Business (B2B) Networking Cocktail hosted by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), alongside a light-hearted Quiz and Karaoke Cocktail organised by AMG.
On Tuesday, 22 April, focus shifts to rural economic transformation, with the Rural Industrialisation Indaba taking centre stage. Other notable events include a Welcome Cocktail—held in partnership with the British Embassy and strictly by invitation—Buyers’ Speed Networking, the Zimbabwe-India Business Session, and the launch of the ZITF 2025 Innovators’ Forum and Hackathon.
Wednesday, 23 April will feature the flagship ZITF International Business Conference and a continuation of the Innovators Forum and Hackathon. Also on the agenda are B2B meetings, the Research for Industrialisation and Economic Recovery Conference, and an evening of networking at the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe’s Karaoke and Quiz Night. The day concludes with a reception hosted by the Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce.
Events on Thursday, 24 April include the CZI OEM Breakfast Meeting, the Connect Africa Symposium, the ZITF Diplomats’ Forum, and the ZITF Charity Golf Challenge and Cocktail. The day also features the Scholastica Indaba, which targets education stakeholders.
The highlight of Friday, 25 April will be the official opening ceremony, officiated by President Chapo of Mozambique. The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) and ZITF will also host a Business Luncheon attended by high-profile delegates.
The fair concludes on Saturday, 26 April with a public entertainment programme, rounding off a week of trade, dialogue, and cultural celebration.
This year’s edition places strong emphasis on enhancing visitor and exhibitor convenience. Measures introduced include a satellite office in Harare, which has helped reduce congestion at the Bulawayo headquarters. “We’ve received encouraging feedback from exhibitors, thanks to the commendable work by our Harare-based team,” said Moyo.
ZITF staff have also undergone training to manage the expected high traffic volumes, and parking facilities have been expanded, with VIP and premium zones reserved for high-security days such as the official opening.
“Additional parking facilities have been set up to alleviate pressure on main parking zones and provide a smoother arrival experience. In response to stakeholder concerns, premium parking has been designated for VIPs, ensuring ease of access even on security-sensitive days,” Moyo said.