The Zimbabwean government is gearing up to attract foreign direct investment by showcasing its potential at Expo 2025 in Japan. This global event, scheduled to take place in Osaka from April 13 to October 13, will offer Zimbabwe a platform to engage with international investors and promote its industrial and economic capabilities.
Last December, the Zimbabwean government announced its intention to participate in Expo 2025. This world expo, organized by the Bureau of International Des Expositions (BIE), is a major international exhibition that aims to bring together countries from around the globe to share innovations, ideas, and solutions.
The BIE, headquartered in France, oversees international exhibitions under the ‘Convention Relating to International Exhibitions.’ This organization, with 182 member states, ensures the quality and standards of these global events. At a recent two-day national multi-stakeholder conference held in Bulawayo, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu highlighted the importance of Expo 2025 for Zimbabwe. He emphasized that the event represents an opportunity to tap into global markets, forge strategic partnerships, and boost the country’s industrialization efforts.
Ndlovu remarked, “Expo 2025 is a crucial platform for creating synergies and unlocking global markets. Zimbabwe is a nation that does not shy away from challenges. As we prepare for the expo, we aim to attract investors to key sectors, which will significantly support our industrial growth.”
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Sheillah Chikomo, also addressed the conference. She stated that the event’s primary goal is to review Zimbabwe’s progress in preparing for Expo 2025. The conference served as a forum to evaluate the nation’s readiness and strategize on how to maximize the benefits of participating in the expo.
Chikomo explained, “This conference allowed us to take stock of our preparation efforts and establish a momentum that will help us reap the multi-faceted benefits from Expo 2025. The theme of the expo, ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives,’ presents an invaluable opportunity for nations to collaborate on both new and existing solutions.”
She added that Expo 2025 is not merely an exhibition but a catalyst for global progress. The event will gather ideas, inspiration, collaboration, and innovation from around the world, fostering new partnerships and initiatives. Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Yamanaka Shinichi, also spoke about the upcoming expo. He highlighted that Japan is working diligently to host over 160 countries and attract 84 million visitors to Osaka. Shinichi assured that the Japanese government, along with local authorities and the Japanese people, are fully committed to making the expo a success.
Shinichi noted, “With less than 270 days remaining until Expo 2025, Japan is making significant preparations. This expo will provide Zimbabwe with a valuable platform to present its economic and business potential on a global stage. It will also facilitate the sharing of ideas, the formation of new partnerships, and the implementation of innovative solutions that can shape future livelihoods.”
He further stated that the expo would offer Zimbabwe an opportunity to contribute to global discussions on addressing pressing challenges and working towards a better future. The event is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s visibility and attract international attention to its economic potential.
