ZITF 2026 Theme Unveiled to Drive Regional Integration and Industrial Competitiveness

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The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has announced the theme for its 2026 edition, scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 April 2026 at the Zimbabwe Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES) in Bulawayo. The theme, “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” highlights the event’s focus on promoting regional integration and enhancing industrial competitiveness across Africa.

ZITF CEO Dr Nicholas Ndebele stated that the theme emphasises the trade fair’s strategic role in supporting Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the broader continental industrialisation agenda. “By fostering value addition, regional value chains, and infrastructure development, ZITF 2026 seeks to accelerate Africa’s transformation into a globally competitive business hub,” he said.

Dr Ndebele further explained that the theme reflects objectives such as fostering integration, regional trade, cross-border collaboration, and supply chain connectivity. It aligns with initiatives like the Africa Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), NDS2, and the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy (ZNIDP). He described ZITF 2026 as a platform to launch transformative partnerships aimed at strengthening regional industries and elevating Africa’s global business profile.

Following the record success of ZITF 2025, which drew over 800 exhibitors from 30 countries, Dr Ndebele assured that the 2026 edition would build on this momentum by increasing private-sector participation, especially from the manufacturing sector whose contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) has reached 15 percent. Additionally, the event plans to expand its international reach, enhance youth involvement, and improve the visitor experience.

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Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager at ZITF, Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo, said the key business days from 20 to 22 April will offer concentrated opportunities for high-level conferencing, networking, deal-making, and business-to-business engagement. “ZITF 2026 will provide businesses with a unique platform to showcase innovations, forge strategic alliances and access new markets,” he said, urging the business community to capitalise on the event for regional and international market positioning.

Exhibitors have already begun registering for ZITF 2026 through the digital platform, where they can select their preferred stand locations and requirements. Mr Nkomo expressed confidence that the next fair would surpass previous editions in meeting the needs of exhibitors, buyers, consumers, and other economic participants.

Businesses and industry leaders are encouraged to register early to benefit from the early bird advantage at https://www.zitfevents.com/13/request-for-quotation. Visitors can pre-register online for free entry on business days via https://www.zitfevents.com/.

Established over 65 years ago, ZITF is Zimbabwe’s premier international trade exhibition, featuring sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, mining, tourism, and services. The event spans six days and includes the International Business Conference (IBC) and Connect Africa Symposium, hosting keynote speakers and industry experts who provide insights on trade and investment.

The fair serves as a significant platform for showcasing goods, services, and innovations driving economic development both locally and internationally.