IATF2025 Poised To Drive $44bn in Trade and Investment Across Africa

The countdown to the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) has officially begun, with Algiers, Algeria set to host the continent’s premier trade and investment event from 4 – 10 September 2025.

According to a press statement issued by  the organisers of the IATF, The fair is expected to bring together over 35,000 visitors from more than 140 countries, along with 2,000 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of goods and services.

The IATF2025, organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, will focus on the theme “Gateway to New Opportunities.” The event aims to tap into the vast potential of the AfCFTA, which represents a market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP of US$3.5 trillion.

The former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who serves as the Chairman of the IATF Advisory Council, expressed confidence in the fair’s role in driving intra-African trade. “The IATF has distinguished itself as an instrument for promoting intra-African trade and investment by enabling businesses to interact and access trade and market information opportunities,” he said.

IATF2025 is projected to generate over $44 billion in trade and investment deals during its week-long programme. The event will feature various activities, including exhibitions from countries and businesses, the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme, and the Africa Automotive Show. Special days will be dedicated to showcasing trade, investment opportunities, and cultural attractions from participating nations.

Obasanjo highlighted the cumulative success of previous IATF editions, stating that “over $100 billion in trade and investment deals have been closed cumulatively with over 70,000 visitors and more than 4,500 exhibitors participating.” He encouraged African businesses to take advantage of the fair to expand their market reach and strengthen intra-African ties.

Algeria, as the host nation, is seen as a key player in Africa’s trade ecosystem. The country, one of the continent’s most advanced economies, will provide a strategic platform for African and global businesses to explore new opportunities.

IATF2025 will also include a dedicated IATF Diaspora Day to highlight the commercial and cultural ties between Africa and its global diaspora.

Chief Obasanjo reiterated that IATF2025 is not just a trade fair, but a critical element in Africa’s broader economic strategy. “It serves as a collaborative platform for driving shared aspirations for prosperity and stability, as envisioned by AfCFTA,” he said.

As Africa continues to push for economic integration and growth through the AfCFTA, IATF2025 is poised to further enhance the continent’s resilience and unlock new opportunities for economies and businesses.

Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi

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