Regional trade expansion is gaining momentum as businesses from Limpopo secure export opportunities, distribution deals, and new cross-border partnerships at the 66th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo.
The trade fair is one of Southern Africa’s largest business platforms, bringing together exhibitors, investors and government delegations under the theme, Connected Economies, Competitive Industries, with a focus on manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and technology.
The event focuses on manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, mining and technology, with an emphasis on strengthening regional value chains and promoting industrial development.
More than 20 businesses from Limpopo are participating through support from the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) and its agency, the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LIEDA).
LEDET Head of Department Dr Matodzi Rathumbu said the province is using regional platforms to strengthen market access for small businesses and build sustainable trade linkages.
He said Limpopo’s position as a border province gives it a strategic advantage in expanding economic cooperation across Southern Africa.
Rathumbu added that the success of the initiative will be measured by long-term partnerships and business networks created beyond the trade fair. The programme also aligns with regional integration objectives under the Southern African Development Community, which promotes trade and industrial cooperation among member states.
SMEs showcase products and explore new markets
Among the participating businesses is MMR Sports, a Polokwane based sportswear manufacturing company owned by Kgomotso Lekganyane.
The company designs and manufactures custom sports apparel for multiple sporting codes, including football, rugby, cricket, volleyball and netball.
Lekganyane said the platform is helping the business grow beyond South Africa while improving product development through market exposure.
“This is our second year participating in the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, and it continues to help us grow our brand across Africa,” Lekganyane said. “It also gives us a better understanding of what African customers need, which helps us improve our products and remain competitive.”
Another exhibitor, Funo Curls, a hair and skincare manufacturing business based in Thohoyandou, said the fair has introduced the brand to a new regional market.
Khathutshelo Sephuma represented the business at the trade fair and said the platform is helping Funo Curls build brand visibility, engage potential distributors, and explore expansion opportunities into Zimbabwe.
“Being here has helped us introduce Funo Curls and our products to the Zimbabwean market, where people are not yet familiar with our brand,” Sephuma said.
“We are also looking for distribution opportunities and hope to establish a long-term presence here.”
Cross-border deals signal export growth potential
Qualito Craft Distillery, a craft liquor producer based in Phalaborwa, represented by Matome Rapholo, said the trade fair has already delivered tangible business outcomes, including securing a distribution partner in Zimbabwe.
“We have made a genuine connection with a distributor in Zimbabwe, which is a major milestone for our business,” Rapholo said.
“This platform has shown us the potential to expand beyond our borders and grow into regional markets.”
He added that exposure at the fair is also helping improve product development and opening opportunities for expansion and job creation.
Limpopo’s participation at the fair reinforces its commitment to strengthening regional economic integration, expanding market access for small and medium enterprises, and driving investment into competitive industries.
The initiative also advances the objectives of the Southern African Development Community by promoting inclusive trade, industrial cooperation, and cross-border collaboration among member states.
