By Business Reporter
PREMIER mining trade show, Mine Entra has this year recorded a growth trajectory in exhibitors compared to last year as supplementary exhibition space has been availed to cater for the growing numbers.
An additional exhibition hall has been opened with more external sites put to use as the number of bookings jostle in every day.
In a press release, Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company board chairperson, Ms Ruth B. Ncube revealed that ‘A total of 183 companies have booked exhibition space to date which compares favourably to last year’s closing total of 153 direct exhibitors.’
‘Currently the exhibition is sitting at 6,385 square metres of space sold, compared to 4,414 square metres sold at last year’s show. The space sales represent 93% of space made available for sale,’ she said.
‘Based on an overwhelming interest in the event, supplementary exhibition space has been availed with an additional exhibition hall being opened and more external sites being put to use.’
Ncube highlighted that 22 percent of confirmed exhibiting companies are first time participants, a positive sign that companies have embraced Mine Entra as an essential international business-to-business meeting point for opportunities in mining and related industries in Zimbabwe.
Schedule to take place from 10-12 October 2018 in Bulawayo, the 23rd edition of Mine Entra will be running under the theme ‘Mineral Beneficiation: Catalyst for Economic Growth.’
This year’s theme paves a strategic focus for the country’s minerals industry through the structured development of mining value chains and the facilitation of the expansion of beneficiation initiatives in the country with a view to attaining incremental Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in mineral value addition per capita.
Exhibiting companies will have a varied product mix, drawn from engineering equipment, fittings and accessories, building and construction, chemicals, education and training, hydraulic and lifting equipment, mining seismology, transport, signage and labelling equipment, insurance services and protective wear.
Regional and international exhibitors have booked to participate. Five companies from China, one from Japan and 2 from South Africa are expected to show case mining equipment and chemicals, earth moving equipment, mineral processing equipment, water purification, stump mills and crushing equipment, automotive, filtration equipment, rubber products, medical and health products.
‘Foreign exhibitor numbers are up from one country last year to three countries in 2018. The increase in foreign interest is reflective of a growing confidence in the Zimbabwean mining industry and strong international interest in doing business with Zimbabwe,’ said Ncube.
Running concurrently with the trade show are a number of knowledge-sharing platforms and focused dialogues catering for the different segments within the mining value-chain.
Women in Mining, Artisanal and Small-scale Miners, Young Professionals Forum and Mine Entra Conferences are aimed at prompting discussions on harnessing the country’s mining potential, identifying and kick-starting the catalytic actions necessary for progress on sustainable exploration, mining, processing, marketing and management of mineral resources for the benefit of all Zimbabweans.
Mines and Mining Development minister, Winston Chitando is expected to officially open the show. He will be accompanied by Chamber of Mines Presidium and Executive Council, including other key mining industry stakeholders. ENDS//
