Zimbabwe moves to scrap SADC trade barriers

As the curtain fell on the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), it was not just business deals that defined the week, but the human connections and shared experiences that lingered long after the exhibition halls emptied.

At the close of the country's premier trade showcase in Bulawayo, the once-bustling stands grew quiet, banners fluttered gently in the fading light and the steady hum of commerce gave way to reflection.

For six days, the fairgrounds served as a vibrant hub of ambition, culture and enterprise under the theme "Connected Economies, Competitive Industries." Yet beyond high-level engagements and polished displays, it was the everyday interactions—handshakes, conversations and aspirations—that gave the event its lasting impact.

On the final day, families lingered between pavilions, children clutching balloons and treats as vendors made last-minute sales. The atmosphere carried a sense of reluctant departure, as visitors savoured the closing moments.

For exhibitors, however, the end of the fair marked the beginning of new opportunities. Business discussions initiated earlier in the week evolved into tangible prospects, with commitments for follow-up meetings, partnerships and potential contracts.

In the ICT pavilion, exhibitor Susan Mathuthu said the platform had opened new markets.

"We connected with buyers from the region and beyond. The discussions we had here are promising and could significantly grow our export footprint," she said.

Small business owners also highlighted the value of exposure. Entrepreneur Gilbert Moyo said visibility and networking were key outcomes.

"We have managed to meet potential partners and distributors, which is a big step for our growth," he said.

International participants echoed similar sentiments. Botswana exhibitor Keletso Moetsi praised the organisation and engagement levels, noting that Zimbabwe presented itself as both a market and a potential partner.

Visitors, too, played a central role in shaping the fair's atmosphere. First-time attendee Nomsa Ndlovu said the experience had reshaped her perception of local industry.

"There is a lot of innovation happening in Zimbabwe. The exhibits show that our industries are modernising and adapting to global standards," she said.

Across the exhibition halls, there were clear signs of an economy in transition, with many companies showcasing value-added products rather than raw exports. Entrepreneur Chipo Mlambo said this shift is key to competitiveness and job creation.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority stand drew large crowds with displays of local cuisine and tourism experiences, highlighting the country's cultural richness alongside its economic potential.

The fair also provided opportunities for informal traders operating outside the main exhibition zones. Food vendors, artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs reported strong sales, with many describing the event as one of their most profitable trading periods of the year.

Earlier in the week, the official opening by Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko set an optimistic tone, emphasising regional cooperation and praising Zimbabwe's economic trajectory.

"We appreciate that Zimbabwe is rising. The Zimbabwean economy is now buoyant and this phenomenal growth inspires confidence," he said.

The International Business Conference, a key feature of the fair, brought together policymakers and industry leaders to deliberate on industrialisation, value addition and regional integration, helping shape future investment directions.

As the final visitors departed and the gates closed, what remained was more than just the success of an event—it was a tapestry of human stories, each reflecting opportunity, resilience and hope.

In that sense, the ZITF did not simply end—it carried forward, in the connections made and the possibilities sparked across Zimbabwe's economic landscape.