Algeria Gears Up to Host Africa’s Biggest Trade Fair, Deepens Intra-African Ties
Algeria is accelerating efforts to boost trade with fellow African nations as it prepares to host the fourth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), Africa’s premier trade and investment platform, scheduled for September 4–10, 2025 in Algiers.
Speaking during the Algeria IATF2025 Business Roadshow, the country’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion, H.E. Prof. Kamal Rezig, emphasized Algeria’s commitment to deepening continental trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He outlined key infrastructure projects such as the Trans-Sahara Highway, the Zouerate Road linking Tindouf to Mauritania, and the Nigeria-Algeria gas pipeline and fibre optic cable as pivotal for boosting connectivity and commerce.
“In order to improve the business climate in Algeria, the State has endeavoured to ensure a stable, transparent, and attractive environment for investment,” said Prof. Rezig. He added that Algeria is promoting its non-oil exports to diversify trade under AfCFTA.
According to the African Trade Report 2025, Algeria’s intra-African trade rose to 2.2% in 2024, up from 1.9% in 2022, with mineral fuels and oils accounting for 91.5% of its exports. Top export destinations include Tunisia, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Senegal, while Mauritania and Tunisia lead its African import partners.
Held under the theme “Harnessing Regional and Continental Value Chains: Accelerating Africa’s Industrialisation and Global Competitiveness under the AfCFTA,” the roadshow brought together leaders including H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, IATF2025 Advisory Council Chair; Ms. Baleka Mbete, former South African Deputy President; and Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice-President of Intra-African Trade at Afreximbank.
Chief Obasanjo emphasized that intra-African trade is essential to “achieving economic emancipation and self-reliance,” while Mrs. Awani highlighted that Algeria had previously secured over $2 billion in deals through IATF and now has an opportunity to lead as the 2025 host.
IATF2025 is expected to attract over 35,000 visitors and buyers from 140+ countries, with 2,000+ exhibitors and deals projected to surpass US$44 billion. The fair will feature the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), Africa Automotive Show, Trade and Investment Forum, and AU Youth Start-Up Programme, among others.
Organised by Afreximbank, the African Union Commission, and the AfCFTA Secretariat, IATF offers a platform to bridge Africa’s trade information gap, accelerate industrialisation, and position the continent for global competitiveness.
For participation and information, visit: www.intrafricantradefair.com
