Country launches 50th DITF to spur investment

DAR ES SALAAM: THE 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) opened yesterday as officials sought to leverage the annual exhibition to attract investment, expand exports and strengthen commercial partnerships in support of private sector-led growth.

The anniversary edition opened with a ‘Flash Flash Night’ ceremony ahead of the exhibition’s public opening, marking five decades since the country’s flagship trade exhibition was established.

Organisers expect the fair to attract thousands of exhibitors, investors and visitors from local and abroad. Representing Temeke District Commissioner Sixtus Mapunda, Acting Temeke Administrative Officer Betha Minga urged businesses and the public to attend from the opening days rather than waiting until the traditional peak on July 7, saying early participation offers greater opportunities to identify investment prospects and establish commercial partnerships.

“The trade fair is more than a marketplace. It is a platform for businesses to connect with potential partners, exchange knowledge, explore new technologies and build networks that can generate long-term commercial opportunities,” Ms Minga said.

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She said this year’s edition includes expanded exhibition space and new features designed to strengthen engagement between domestic enterprises and international participants. Exhibitors attending the launch said they view the fair as an opportunity to expand their customer base, secure distribution partnerships and increase brand visibility in the country’s growing consumer market.

Elia Manyinga from Customise Furniture said the event provides a rare opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, financiers and buyers from across East Africa and beyond.

“We (Customise Furniture) are looking to use this exhibition to showcase locally manufactured products, identify export opportunities and learn from competitors operating in regional markets,” Manyinga said.

Several exhibitors who were in the final preparations said networking has become as valuable as product sales, with business-to-business meetings increasingly driving long-term commercial relationships.

Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Director General Dr Latifa Khamis said security has been strengthened throughout the exhibition, urging exhibitors and visitors to attend across the full period rather than crowding the final days.