Excitement Builds: Durban Fair Set to Welcome 150 Exhibitors and Industry Leaders

In an effort to drive the local economy, the municipality has strongly urged the community and businesses to actively support locally manufactured goods on display.

Anticipation is mounting for the North Regional Durban Business Fair, which will feature an impressive line-up of 150 local businesses showcasing their diverse products and services. Scheduled to take place from 28 - 30 March 2025 at the Bridge City Shopping Centre, this premier event is proudly hosted by the eThekwini Municipality and promises invaluable opportunities for networking, business growth, empowerment, and strategic collaboration.

As the third regional business fair organized by the municipality in the 2024/25 financial year, the event is designed to foster direct engagement between exhibitors and potential customers, including representatives from government departments, municipal entities, financial institutions, and fellow entrepreneurs.

Visitors and exhibitors alike will benefit from the concurrent Business Indaba, a two-day intensive programme aimed at exploring emerging trends and delivering critical insights for business success. The event begins on 28 March with the much-anticipated Construction Development Indaba. Industry veterans and influential leaders from established businesses will delve into topics relevant to emerging enterprises, notably how small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) can leverage artificial intelligence to remain competitive.

Another significant area of focus will be the Inner-City Regeneration and property development process. Participating businesses will receive practical guidance, empowering them to access and optimize opportunities within Durban's rapidly evolving construction and development sectors.

Highlighting the municipality's commitment to gender equality and women's economic growth, the Women's Economic Empowerment Engagement scheduled for 29 March promises a robust dialogue on mentorship, networking, and collaborative strategies for female entrepreneurs. Esteemed South African business figures will lead these dynamic discussions, sharing their journeys and expertise. Attendees will also gain insights from eThekwini Municipality’s Women's Economic Empowerment Programme, which has successfully supported women-led businesses for 19 years, showcasing inspiring success stories and outlining actionable opportunities for future growth.

Further enriching the fair, the Junior International Chamber will exhibit at the International Pavilion, spotlighting global business opportunities such as import and export ventures. In addition, attendees will benefit from dedicated zones and interactive segments, including exhibitions by tertiary educational institutions, a specialized tech zone, live cooking demonstrations, and an engaging "kiddiepreneur" garden aimed at nurturing young entrepreneurial talent.

In an effort to drive the local economy, the municipality has strongly urged the community and businesses to actively support locally manufactured goods on display. Products range from high-quality furniture, fashionable clothing and accessories, and home essentials, to agricultural produce, health products, and detergents.

Individuals interested in participating in the Construction Development Indaba or Women's Economic Empowerment Engagement are encouraged to secure their spots promptly by emailing zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za or calling 031 311 4500.

This extensive and vibrant platform underscores the city's dedication to bolstering entrepreneurship, driving economic prosperity, and positioning Durban as a hub for regional and international business excellence.