By John Chola

Zambia’s flagship Agricultural and Commercial Show has sold out all its exhibition space ahead of this year’s event.

This emphases strong business confidence despite an election year, as mining giant First Quantum Minerals (FQM) reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the country’s economic development with a K550,000 platinum sponsorship.

The 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show, scheduled for July 29 to August 3, has attracted overwhelming interest from local and international exhibitors, filling its entire 198,000 square metres of exhibition grounds while drawing participants from more than 18 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

Speaking during the official media briefing, Agricultural and Commercial Show Society of Zambia (ACSZ) President René Lourens described the annual exhibition as one of the country’s most important economic platforms, bringing together agriculture, commerce, innovation and investment.

“This year’s Show is more than an exhibition. It is a marketplace of ideas, innovations and opportunities that continues to promote agriculture, trade and economic growth while positioning Zambia as a reliable regional investment destination,” Lourens said.

Held under the theme “Fostering Trade and Investment,” the six-day exhibition will feature business networking forums, investment discussions, SME hubs, ICT innovation showcases and agricultural exhibitions, alongside entertainment and family activities.

Lourens said the Society had strengthened its electronic judging and ticketing systems to improve efficiency and visitor experience while extending operating hours during business days in line with government’s 24-hour economy initiative.

The Show has also maintained affordable entry charges, with daily tickets priced at K70, as organisers seek to attract broader public participation.

International participation continues to expand, with confirmed exhibitors from countries including India, China, South Korea, South Africa, Canada, the Czech Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Egypt, Ghana, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Tanzania, Angola, Malawi and Mozambique, reinforcing the event’s growing regional and global profile.

Meanwhile, First Quantum Minerals, which is marking 30 years of operations in Zambia, reaffirmed its partnership with the Agricultural and Commercial Show by presenting a K550,000 cheque as a Platinum Sponsor.

The mining company said the sponsorship reflects its continued commitment to promoting trade, investment, innovation and sustainable economic development.

“We are delighted to partner with the Show Society once again. This year’s theme reflects the enduring legacy of an event that, for nearly a century, has showcased Zambia’s investment potential and created opportunities for businesses to grow,” said First Quantum Corporate Affairs Manager Kyansenga Chitoshi

Chitoshi said FQM had consistently supported initiatives that strengthen Zambia’s business environment and create opportunities for investment and economic transformation.

Speaking at the sponsorship launch, Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga urged stakeholders to embrace Zambia’s national brand, saying a stronger international identity would enhance the country’s reputation, attract investment and promote inclusive development.

Lourens described the Agricultural and Commercial Show as a cornerstone of Zambia’s national calendar, saying it continues to bring together ideas, innovation and partnerships that support agriculture, trade and long-term economic growth.

Looking ahead, Lourens said the 2028 edition, which will mark the Show’s centenary, is expected to elevate the exhibition to international standards while showcasing Zambia’s economic ambitions on the global stage.