Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) 2026 generated over US$600 million in business transactions and investment leads, with government now shifting focus to converting the deals into tangible industrial growth, a Cabinet Minister has said.
Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has said this while addressing a post-event media briefing following the 66th edition of the ZITF.
He said the exhibition had moved beyond being a mere showcase to becoming a serious marketplace driving economic transformation.
“Preliminary analysis indicates over US$600 million worth of business transactions, confirmed orders and leads were generated during the show. “ZITF continues to be a platform where deals are initiated, partnerships are built, and investment conversations move from intention to execution,” he said.
This year the exhibition, which ran from April 20 to 25 and exceeded available exhibition space, recording a utilisation rate of 104 percent, was held under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries.”
A total of 812 exhibitors participated, with private sector players dominating at 61 percent, reflecting growing business confidence in the economic prospects of the country.
Ndhlovu said the oversubscription was a strong signal that the country remains an attractive investment destination.
“This growth reflects robust interest in the event and confirms ZITF’s continued relevance as a pivotal platform for industry engagement, trade promotion and investment facilitation,” he said.
He said the theme for this year was a practical call for enterprises to integrate into regional and global value chains while embracing innovation and competitiveness.
“This year’s theme was not just a slogan, it was a call to action towards collaboration, regional integration, cross-border value chain development and stronger digital connectivity,” he said.
International participation remained strong with 31 countries represented, including regional neighbours and key global markets, reinforcing the position of Bulawayo as a strategic trade hub.
“International participation continues to evolve from transactional engagement towards more strategic, long-term interest. We were deliberate in encouraging private sector participation from foreign markets, which is critical for sustainable partnerships, “said Ndlovu
He said strong sector interest in manufacturing, mining, agriculture and energy, alongside growing momentum in information and communication technology and innovation-driven enterprises.
Ndlovu said high-level engagements during the fair, including business-to-business meetings and closed-door sessions between the government and industry leaders, had created a solid pipeline of investment opportunities.
“Curated B2B sessions generated high-value leads that are expected to translate into firm commitments as follow-through processes conclude,” he said.
He also commended increased youth participation through platforms such as the Youth in Business Conference, describing it as critical for inclusive economic development.
On infrastructure development, Ndlovu said the laying of the foundation stone for a retail complex at the ZITF grounds marked the beginning of a broader transformation agenda.
“This signals our intention to transform the exhibition centre into a modern smart city that supports business and trade throughout the year,” he said, adding the government would prioritise converting the gains made during the ZITF into measurable economic outcomes.
Ndlovu described the ZITF as a strategic national asset that continues to play a key role in promoting trade, industrialisation and investment.
“ZITF 2026 delivered strong participation, full space uptake and encouraging business value signals, while reaffirming its status as a key platform for national development,” noting the the next edition of the trade showcase is scheduled for April 26 to May 1, 2027,”said the minister.
New Ziana
