• ZITF kicks off today and the five-day trade expo will run from 25 to 29 April in Bulawayo 
• The 63rd edition of ZITF will be officially opened by King Mswati III of the Royal Kingdom of Eswatini
• 65% of the confirmed exhibitors are coming from Harare with representation from other cities around the country standing at 14 percent.
• 25 direct exhibits are expected from 21 foreign nations, representing both national participation and individual companies

Harare - The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is one of the largest intra-regional trade fairs south of the Sahara and a major opportunity for local businesses to boost trade, connect with new partners, and strengthen their competitiveness. This year's trade fair, started today, with the theme 'Transformative, Innovation, Global Competitiveness', aims to help companies transform their businesses, spur innovation and improve competitiveness globally.

Bulawayo's prime location at the crossroads of regional trade and transportation routes makes it a strategic hub. This week, the city welcomes a diverse group of distinguished guests, including international company representatives, local and global exhibitors, industry leaders, regional officials, top government personnel, and diplomats, among others.

The 30% increase in exhibitors this year, to 533 exhibitors, signals that the ZITF continues to attract strong interest and presents abundant opportunities for business networking and deals. The presence of 25 foreign exhibitors from 21 countries provides a chance for local companies to promote their goods and services to international audiences and secure new export markets. By participating in conferences and events, companies can gain valuable insights into innovations, technologies and strategies to drive growth.

However, attending the ZITF alone is not enough. Companies must act purposefully before, during and after the trade fair to maximize the benefits. In the lead up to the ZITF, companies should develop targeted goals and objectives for their participation. This could include connecting with a certain number of new international contacts or promoting new products to potential customers. Companies should also plan their presence at the actual trade fair to accomplish these goals, including scheduling meetings, hosting presentations or networking events at their exhibition stand.

Following up after the ZITF is critical. Companies should evaluate all new contacts and explore business opportunities, turning connections into clients or partners. They should pursue promising leads for deals, partnerships or investments discussed at the trade fair. Companies can also promote their attendance at the ZITF through marketing to enhance their credibility and profile. Lessons and insights gained from the trade fair should inform strategies to improve innovation, competitiveness and growth.

Planning to participate in the next ZITF and building on the experiences from this year's event will help companies maximize the long-term benefits of attending the trade fair. With targeted goals, purposeful participation and comprehensive follow up, the ZITF can significantly boost business and transform the fortunes of companies.

The impacts of the ZITF for the economy and trade in Zimbabwe are substantial. When more local companies participate and benefit from the trade fair, it spurs business growth, exports, foreign investment and economic activity across many sectors. The insights, connections and partnerships formed at the ZITF can foster innovation, competitiveness and product and market development for years to come.

Overall, the ZITF is a prime opportunity for both individual businesses and the broader Zimbabwean economy. But capturing the full benefits of the trade fair requires concerted effort before, during and after the event itself. With the right level of participation and follow up, the ZITF can serve as a catalyst for business and economic transformation in Zimbabwe.

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