Over five hundred foreign and local exhibitors have indicated interest to attend this year’s Abuja International Trade Fair.
The President of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ACCI, Dr. Al-Mujtaba Abubakar made this known while briefing newsmen on the forthcoming 18th Abuja International Trade Fair, AITF, scheduled for between 29th September to 9th October 2023 at the Abuja Trade and Convention Centre and the opened field of ACCI.
Dr. Abubakar who was represented by Director General of ACCI, Ms Victoria Akai said
the AITF is a prestigious multi-sectoral event in Nigeria that continues to expand its scope and influence.
“As one of the largest trade platforms in Africa, it offers domestic and international exhibitors an opportunity to showcase new product lines, access untapped markets, forge invaluable business relationships, unveil innovative products, and stay ahead of emerging trends” He stated
According to him, it is dedicated to connecting businesses with lucrative trade and investment prospects within the country and this trading platform cultivates a neutral and inclusive environment, welcoming companies, trade associations, government investment/export promotion agencies, institutions, and private sector organisations.
The President of ACCI explained that the event serves as a catalyst for establishing fruitful investment and trade relations with new business partners and with Abuja’s advantageous location as the nation’s capital and its convenient approximate one-hour flight from all locations in Nigeria, coupled with accessibility to all geopolitical zones, hosting a significant number of international and local participants becomes both strategic and secure.
“The 18th edition of the Fair with the theme of “Sustainable Financing and Taxation as Drivers for the New Economy,” would serve as a platform for businesses to engage with financial and tax institutions, discuss current trends and solutions, and foster sustainable approaches to the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, and the event will showcase innovative products and solutions from our partners and exhibitors in various sectors such as Fintech, tax collection, payment systems, e-health, food processing, and environmental safety” Dr. Abubakar stressed
He emphasized that this year’s theme is centred on financing and taxation which is the cornerstone of any prosperous nation and immense importance to the business community as it is critical to addressing climate-friendly initiatives, the ease of doing business, and attracting foreign direct investment.
“Why should I attend? You may ask.
• From the heart of Nigeria, the Abuja International Trade Fair connects people, brands and markets with business interactions, discoveries and innovations and it will amongst other things provide an enabling environment for businesses to discuss and interact with financial and tax institutions on current trends and solutions, as well as to work out a sustainable approach to AfCFTA and harmonize country requirements among others ” the President of ACCI said
Dr. Abubakar added that this year’s edition would feature a special designated and curated diplomatic space for foreign representations, trade missions and international organisations to present their businesses, economic cooperation projects as well as featured products and technologies.
In a remark, the Head of Abuja Trade Centre of ACCI, Emeka Ezekwensili said the 18th edition of the Abuja International Trade Fair is part of the Chamber’s initiative to connect businesses and create a platform for policymakers to interact with the business community.
He stated that ACCI champion the promotion of small businesses, acknowledging their vital role in the national economy, job creation, and overall prosperity of not only the FCT but Nigeria in general.