THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has indicated that over 75% exhibition space has so far been booked for this year’s trade showcase as stands are being allocated on a first come, first serve basis upon payment. CHIEF REPORTER
The 56th edition of the country’s premier trade show runs under the theme “Stimulating Trade, Seizing Opportunities to Accelerate Growth” from April 21 to 25.
ZITF general manager Nomathemba Ndlovu said exhibitors that have not yet confirmed bookings are encouraged to do so in order to benefit from the early booking rates which expire on March 31.
“To date the exhibition is over 75% booked, which is on par with the booking statistics at this time last year. Early booking allows exhibitors to prepare adequately, do pre-show marketing and avoid paying last minute rates to service providers,” Ndlovu said.
He said Germany, India, Malawi, Mozambique, Pakistan, Poland and South Africa are some of the countries that had so far confirmed their participation at this year’s edition.
“Interest from international participants is also encouraging as enquiries have come from as far afield as Europe and Asia. Our network of international sales agents continues to work with us to attract participants from more markets. ”
Countries that have confirmed participation include Germany, India, Malawi, Mozambique, Pakistan, Poland and the Republic of South Africa. We expect this number to increase as expressions of interest by other foreign countries are confirmed into actual bookings.”
Last year, 19 countries, including the United States which had not set foot at ZITF for 10 years, and close to 400 firms participated.
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China was the biggest exhibitor at the 2014 fair occupying more than 1 000m2 up from 600m2 in 2013, but there were no known companies; just small-to-medium enterprises.
South Africa increased space uptake from 700m2 in 2013 to 800m2 in 2014. The sector-specific exhibitions A’sambeni Africa Business Tourism Expo, for the MICE tourism sector, Scholastica, for the education, careers and training sectors, Pakprint, for the printing and packaging sectors and Ultim8 Home, for home improvement and renovation will also run parallel.
The now traditional International Business Conference is expected to focus on how stimulating exports would provide opportunities to propel growth under ZimAsset.
