ORGANISERS of this year’s 6th edition of the Beitbridge Business Expo are targeting a 10% increase in participation as the border town positions itself as Zimbabwe’s premier commercial gateway.
Beitbridge Business Expo chairperson Annah Muleya told Southern Eye that the event has become an important platform for promoting local enterprise, investment and community-based economic development.
It will run from July 2 to 4.
“The expo brings together small and medium enterprises, established companies, young entrepreneurs, service providers, public institutions and potential investors to showcase products, exchange ideas and create business linkages,” Muleya said.
She highlighted that recent editions have shown growing participation from businesses and stakeholders, with discussions around formalisation, market access, technology adoption and regional trade gaining momentum.
“Last year, we had 156 companies and we are hoping for a 10% increase on that,” Muleya said.
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Another key highlight is the planned development of a permanent showground, which is expected to allow the expo to grow beyond a once-off annual event and become a year-round centre for exhibitions, agricultural shows, investor forums and community activities.
Muleya indicated that the business expo gives local businesses visibility, encourages formalisation and helps to connect enterprises with markets and investors.
“The town’s push towards city status and central business district expansion also point to a more organised and investment-ready environment.”
She acknowledged that businesses continue to face high operating costs, limited affordable finance, regulatory and licensing requirements, competition from informal trade and the effect of global price shocks on fuel.
"Addressing these challenges will require continued investment in infrastructure, simplified procedures, access to finance for SMEs, stronger digital systems and consistent engagement between authorities and the business community,” she said.
A business analyst, who spoke on condition of anonymity, painted a more concerning picture, warning that the country is facing both legal and political risks that are stalling business activity.