The 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show is set to play a significant role in advancing Zambia’s trade and investment agenda by creating new opportunities for businesses, investors and entrepreneurs. Scheduled to take place from 29 July to 3 August 2026, the event is expected to attract participants from across Zambia and around the world. This year’s edition carries the theme “Fostering Trade and Investment,” highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthening economic growth through collaboration, innovation and business development. As one of Zambia’s most important annual exhibitions, the show has evolved into far more than an agricultural gathering. It has become a strategic platform where industries meet, investment opportunities are explored and partnerships that contribute to long-term economic development are formed.
Over the years, the Agricultural and Commercial Show has made a meaningful contribution to Zambia’s economy by supporting investment across several sectors connected to agriculture. The exhibition has encouraged growth in agro-processing, manufacturing, packaging and distribution, helping businesses expand their operations while creating employment opportunities. These investments have strengthened value addition across the agricultural value chain, allowing more products to be processed locally before reaching domestic and export markets. Increased industrial activity has also stimulated local economies by supporting suppliers, transport providers and service businesses that benefit from increased commercial activity. The continued success of the event demonstrates how agricultural exhibitions can drive wider economic transformation beyond farming alone.
Speaking during the 2026 Agricultural and Commercial Society of Zambia Media Briefing and Exhibitors’ Meeting in Lusaka, Agricultural and Commercial Society of Zambia President Mr. Rene Lourens emphasized that this year’s exhibition is designed to bring together a diverse range of participants. These include local and international exhibitors, investors, policymakers and entrepreneurs who will have the opportunity to showcase products, exchange ideas and establish valuable business relationships. According to Mr. Lourens, the Agricultural and Commercial Show has transformed from a traditional agricultural exhibition into a dynamic marketplace for innovation, commerce and investment. This evolution reflects the changing needs of modern businesses that require platforms capable of connecting them with investors, customers and strategic partners. The event now serves as an important meeting point for companies seeking to expand their market reach while contributing to Zambia’s broader economic objectives.
One of the major highlights of the 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show will be its comprehensive programme of business-focused activities. Visitors and exhibitors can expect business forums, investment dialogues, networking sessions and business-to-business meetings specifically designed to encourage collaboration across industries. These engagements will create opportunities for companies to discuss investment prospects, explore partnerships and identify practical solutions to challenges affecting trade and business growth. The forums will also provide an important space for public and private sector representatives to engage in meaningful discussions on policies that encourage investment and improve the country’s business environment. By facilitating these conversations, the show aims to create lasting partnerships that extend well beyond the exhibition period.
International participation continues to strengthen the reputation of the Agricultural and Commercial Show as one of the region’s leading trade events. This year’s exhibition is expected to welcome exhibitors from more than 18 countries, reflecting growing global interest in Zambia’s investment potential. Participating nations include China, India, South Korea, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Canada, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe, among others. The presence of exhibitors from multiple continents creates opportunities for knowledge exchange, technology transfer and cross-border business collaboration. It also provides Zambian businesses with direct access to international markets, helping them establish relationships that can lead to exports, joint ventures and long-term commercial partnerships.
The exhibition will also serve as a valuable platform for showcasing innovation across agriculture and related industries. Businesses will have the opportunity to introduce new technologies, equipment, products and services that improve productivity and competitiveness. Farmers can learn about modern agricultural practices, while manufacturers and service providers can demonstrate solutions that support efficiency throughout the value chain. Investors attending the event will be able to identify promising enterprises with strong growth potential, creating opportunities for increased investment in Zambia’s productive sectors. This exchange of ideas and innovations will contribute to building a more resilient and competitive agricultural economy capable of meeting both local and international demand.
Government support remains an important factor behind the continued success of the Agricultural and Commercial Show. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the Agricultural and Commercial Society of Zambia, the private sector and international development partners to ensure the event delivers measurable benefits. This collaborative approach is expected to strengthen investment promotion, improve market access and create opportunities that directly benefit businesses, farmers and local communities. Public and private sector cooperation also helps create a stable environment that encourages both domestic and foreign investment. Such partnerships are essential for sustaining economic growth and ensuring that development reaches all parts of the country.
The 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show represents an important opportunity for Zambia to strengthen its position as a regional trade and investment hub. By bringing together businesses, investors, policymakers and innovators from around the world, the event will encourage new partnerships that support economic diversification and sustainable growth. Its focus on trade, investment and innovation reflects the country’s ambition to build a stronger, more competitive economy while creating jobs and expanding opportunities for local enterprises. As exhibitors showcase their products and investors explore new ventures, the exhibition is expected to generate lasting economic value that extends well beyond its six-day programme. With strong government backing, increasing international participation and a clear focus on fostering trade and investment, the 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show is well positioned to contribute significantly to Zambia’s ongoing economic transformation.