THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Company says it is facing challenges getting exhibition materials for this year’s showcase that opened in Bulawayo yesterday due to delays at the Beitbridge Border Post.
Report by Nqobile Bhebhe Some materials for exhibitors were still awaiting clearance on Monday, a day before the opening of the 54th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
ZITF deputy general manager Nomathemba Ndlovu said some exhibitors were yet to prepare their stands because of the delays she blamed on the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) systems.
“There was a delay in getting some of the new stand building material that we purchased for the show, but we have worked hard to catch up on this and have delivered stands to exhibitors, including the new features we introduced in the form of walk on packages,” she said in e-mailed responses to questions from NewsDay yesterday.
“Our staff has been working tirelessly to ensure that our exhibitors get the best possible service. What is, in fact, causing delays is that some exhibitors have exhibits that are still at the (Beitbridge) border because we understand the customs clearing system is down due to lack of Internet access. Further, some goods that have come in by courier have been delayed by Zimra in Harare.” Efforts to get a comment on the delays from Zimra were fruitless last night.
Ndlovu said some exhibitors were still to arrive, but expressed confidence that all would be in place when the fair gets into full swing.
