The 2026 Zambia International Trade Fair has continued to reinforce Zambia’s position as a growing destination for trade, investment and international business cooperation. On the sixth day of the event, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Trade in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Mrs. Lilian S. Bwalya, toured the international pavilions to engage with exhibitors from different countries and assess their participation. Her visit highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering stronger economic partnerships with international businesses while creating new opportunities for local enterprises. The annual trade fair has become one of Zambia’s most important business events, attracting exhibitors, investors and stakeholders from across the region and beyond. Through continued government support and active participation from both local and foreign businesses, the fair continues to promote economic growth, innovation and cross-border collaboration.
During her tour of the international pavilions, Mrs. Bwalya expressed satisfaction with the strong presence of international exhibitors who had travelled to Zambia to showcase their products, services and investment opportunities. She noted that the level of participation demonstrates growing confidence in Zambia as a business destination and reflects the country’s commitment to creating an environment that welcomes international partnerships. The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed that the government remains ready and open to working with international companies and organizations that choose to exhibit at the trade fair. She emphasized that such partnerships contribute to knowledge sharing, technology transfer and increased investment that can benefit various sectors of the Zambian economy. Her remarks also reflected the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen trade relations with countries from around the world.
Mrs. Bwalya encouraged international exhibitors to continue participating in future editions of the Zambia International Trade Fair, describing the event as an important platform for building lasting business relationships. She explained that the fair creates opportunities for businesses from different countries to meet, interact and establish valuable commercial connections that extend beyond the exhibition period. Networking remains one of the biggest advantages of the annual event, allowing companies to explore joint ventures, identify new markets and develop partnerships that support regional and international trade. The interactions between exhibitors, investors and government representatives also help promote confidence in Zambia’s investment climate. As more businesses participate each year, the trade fair continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading commercial event in Southern Africa.
Running from 1 July to 7 July 2026 under the theme “Bridging Markets, Building the Future,” this year’s Zambia International Trade Fair has brought together a diverse range of local and international businesses. The theme reflects the importance of connecting businesses across borders while creating sustainable opportunities that support long-term economic development. Throughout the seven-day event, exhibitors have showcased innovations, products, technologies and services across multiple industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, finance and technology. Business leaders have also engaged in discussions aimed at expanding trade, encouraging investment and strengthening regional cooperation. The event continues to serve as a platform where ideas are exchanged and partnerships are formed to support future economic growth.
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry has maintained a strong presence at this year’s exhibition through its One Stop Shop Pavilion. The pavilion brings together all of the Ministry’s statutory bodies and projects under one roof, allowing visitors to access a wide range of information and government services in a single location. This integrated approach makes it easier for entrepreneurs, investors and members of the public to engage with the Ministry and learn about the various programmes designed to support business development. Officials stationed at the pavilion have been providing guidance on trade policies, investment opportunities, regulatory requirements and services available to businesses operating in Zambia. The One Stop Shop Pavilion demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to improving accessibility while enhancing service delivery to both local and international stakeholders.
As the 2026 Zambia International Trade Fair comes to a close on 7 July 2026, members of the public have been encouraged to visit the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry’s pavilion before the event officially ends. Visitors have an opportunity to engage directly with Ministry officials, obtain valuable business information and learn about government initiatives that promote commerce and industrial development. The closing day also provides exhibitors with a final chance to strengthen business relationships, conclude discussions and explore potential investment opportunities. The continued success of the fair reflects the importance of creating spaces where government, businesses and international partners can collaborate for mutual benefit. With strong participation from both local and global exhibitors, the 2026 Zambia International Trade Fair has once again demonstrated its role as a catalyst for trade, investment and sustainable economic development in Zambia.