The eThekwini Municipality will take its flagship Durban Business Fair closer to communities when it hosts the South Regional Durban Business Fair at KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre in the south of Durban.
The business fair, taking place from 2 - 4 October 2026, forms part of the municipality’s efforts to strengthen township economies and create opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to grow, access markets and participate meaningfully in the local economy.
Launched in 1998, the Durban Business Fair has become an established platform for businesses to showcase their products and services, build networks, and connect with potential customers and business partners.
The 28th edition of the main fair, held earlier this year at the Durban Exhibition Centre, attracted 18 743 visitors, highlighting the platform’s continued reach and relevance.
Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, said the South Regional edition will focus on businesses operating in townships and rural areas, giving entrepreneurs greater exposure and an opportunity to take their products and services to wider markets.
The programme will feature a Business Indaba, skills development masterclasses, business support sessions, and access to key municipal and government departments, bringing information and support closer to businesses and communities.
Ntuli said the regional fair is aimed at bringing economic opportunities closer to entrepreneurs.
“For 28 years, the Durban Business Fair has connected businesses to markets, opportunities and networks. We are now taking that platform directly into our communities.
“We want township and rural businesses to be visible, competitive and positioned to grow. By opening doors to markets, strengthening local businesses and creating opportunities, we can build an economy in which more people participate, prosper and create jobs,” Ntuli said.
The fair will also showcase quality products and services produced by businesses in townships and rural areas, while encouraging communities to support and buy local.
How to register
Businesses interested in exhibiting are encouraged to register before 24 September 2026.
Registration forms are available online at https://gqr.sh/ukZU, or can be collected from 199 Anton Lembede Street, 7th Floor, or at any Sizakala Centre. – SAnews.gov.za
