Source: The Herald – Breaking news.
Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister, Raji Modi, chats with the Chinese Embassy’s economic and commercial counsellor, Huang Minghai (right) during the ZITF 2025 Diplomats Engagement breakfast meeting in Harare yesterday. — Picture: Edward Zvemisha 
Blessings Chidakwa
Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe is not merely participating in the global economy but is actively shaping it by leveraging its strategic location in Southern Africa as a gateway to SADC, COMESA, and AfCFTA markets, a Cabinet Minister has said.
To showcase its potential, the Government is utilising the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) as a platform for the international community to explore what the country has to offer.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce, in partnership with ZITF, yesterday hosted a breakfast meeting for diplomats ahead of this year’s 65th ZITF event, themed “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape.”
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Raj Modi, representing Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu, said diplomatic corps can play a vital role in unlocking Zimbabwe’s vast untapped economic potential.
“We are not just participating in the global economy; we are actively shaping it. Zimbabwe’s strategic location at the heart of Southern Africa positions it as a natural gateway to the SADC, COMESA, and AfCFTA markets. This access to a market of over 1,3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$3,4 trillion presents unparalleled opportunities for foreign businesses,” he said.
Deputy Minister Modi said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a cornerstone of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for a prosperous and integrated continent.
He stressed the diplomatic corps’ role in attracting international exhibitors, investors, and business delegations.
“Your role in positioning Zimbabwe as a premier trade and investment destination is not merely appreciated; it is indispensable.
“We rely on your influence to promote this platform as a gateway for investment, trade linkages, and industrial cooperation.
“Your advocacy will be instrumental in attracting international exhibitors, investors, and business delegations,” he said.
He also pointed to Zimbabwe’s commitment to political stability and peace, alongside ongoing reforms by the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), as key factors in creating a conducive investment climate.
“ZITF is more than an exhibition; it is a dynamic ecosystem of trade, networking, and industrial collaboration. It brings together key stakeholders, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and driving technological advancement and skills development. We urge you to engage your respective business communities, chambers of commerce, and investment agencies to ensure a robust international presence at ZITF 2025,” he added.
ZITF Company Chairman, Mr Busisa Moyo, likened economic collaboration to a well-balanced meal, emphasising that retooling industries and securing financing are top priorities for businesses.
“As a meal nourishes our bodies, collaboration strengthens our economy. Industry leaders are focused on mechanisation for scale and efficiency, as well as securing finance for operations and infrastructure,” he said.
He noted that ZITF, as one of Africa’s premier trade showcases, continues to drive industrial growth and foster vital business connections. “ZITF 2025 will spotlight our nation’s drive toward a sustainable industrial ecosystem. We aim to reduce reliance on raw material exports by encouraging value addition and manufacturing,” Mr Moyo said.
Mr Moyo emphasised the critical role diplomats play in fostering economic growth by advocating for national interests, promoting trade agreements, and providing valuable market insights.
“Together, we can showcase the potential of our diverse industries and create a vibrant platform for collaboration and growth.
“Let us unite in this endeavour to foster deeper connections and explore new avenues for partnership,” he said.
This year’s ZITF will run from April 21 to 26, 2025, and is expected to attract a wide range of international exhibitors, investors, and business delegations. The event will highlight Zimbabwe’s industrial potential, focusing on value addition, manufacturing, and sustainable economic growth.
Zimbabwe is strategically positioning itself as a hub for trade and investment in Southern Africa, leveraging its geographic location and participation in regional and continental trade agreements.
The ZITF serves as a critical platform for showcasing the country’s industrial capabilities and fostering international partnerships.
With a focus on political stability, industrialisation, and value addition, Zimbabwe aims to play a significant role in shaping the global economy while addressing local economic challenges.
Thus the involvement of the diplomatic corps and international stakeholders will be crucial in realising these ambitions.
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