Harare Designated Permanent Home for Intra-African Trade Fair

Harare has been confirmed as the permanent headquarters for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), positioning Zimbabwe as a key continental hub for trade and investment. The announcement was made by Professor Benedict Oramah, outgoing president and chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), during his opening remarks at the 2025 IATF in Harare.

The IATF, organised by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, serves as Africa’s leading platform for promoting trade, investment, and industrial growth. The fair allows businesses to showcase products, exchange information, connect with potential partners, and explore solutions to challenges in intra-African trade.

The event also draws global investors seeking to expand into African markets, supporting the continent’s industrialisation and export growth.

Prof Oramah noted that after nearly eight years of backing from Afreximbank and its partners, the IATF required institutionalisation to create a sustainable and independent entity. He confirmed that the IATF Advisory Council had approved Zimbabwe’s bid, praising the government for presenting a strong proposal.

“I congratulate the government of Zimbabwe for their outstanding bid and look forward to their collaboration with the Advisory Council to establish the IATF as a sustainable organisation in Harare,” Prof Oramah said.

This decision marks a major milestone for Zimbabwe, reinforcing its role in Africa’s trade and investment landscape and providing a stable base for the continent’s premier trade and industrial fair.