Togo: The 19th Lomé International Fair, a showcase of economic cooperation with Mali in the spotlight
The 19th edition of the Lomé International Fair (FIL) opened on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the Togolese Center for Exhibitions and Fairs (CETEF), under the theme of trade, innovation, and economic exchanges. This year’s edition honors Mali as the special guest of honor and will run for two weeks, featuring a rich and diverse program.
The opening ceremony, presided over by Togolese Prime Minister Victoire Dogbé, was attended by several government officials, business leaders, and visitors from various backgrounds. This year, the focus is on strengthening economic and cultural ties between Togo and Mali.
Mali is represented by a significant delegation of business operators showcasing the richness of their heritage. Handmade textiles, shea butter, artistic creations, and agricultural products are prominently displayed in a dedicated pavilion, reflecting the diversity of Malian offerings. During his speech, Massoudou Cissé, spokesperson for Malian business operators, praised the opportunity to promote Malian products while consolidating cooperative ties between the two countries.
Mali’s Economic Day, a key highlight of the fair, will serve as a platform for discussions aimed at fostering investments and partnerships between Malian and Togolese entrepreneurs. Themed conferences are also planned, focusing on topics such as the interconnectivity of African markets and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These exchanges aim to enhance regional economic integration in line with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
For Kayi Mivedor-Sambiani, Togolese Minister of Trade, the FIL provides a unique space for meetings and opportunities for business operators. With over 1,000 exhibitors and nearly 500.000 visitors expected, the fair has become a true showcase for African trade.
Through this edition, Togo continues to affirm its role as a platform for economic and cultural exchanges in West Africa, while strengthening its bilateral cooperation with partner countries like Mali.
