Algeria is set to welcome the fourth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) from September 4 to 10, 2025, with organizers expecting more than 35,000 visitors from 140 countries and 1,600 exhibitors.
The event, the largest economic gathering on the continent, aims to strengthen intra-African trade under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Organized every two years by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the IATF has previously generated over $100 billion in trade agreements and investments since its launch in 2018.
Previous editions were held in Cairo (2018 and 2023) and Durban (2021). This year, Algiers hosts the fair under the theme “Gateway to New Opportunities.”
“Algeria’s role as a continental economic hub is reflected in its high-quality participation in past fairs,” said a senior government official. Algeria has won accolades including “best stand” in Durban 2021 and “best innovative stand” in Cairo 2023.
The 2025 edition will feature over 75 national pavilions covering sectors from agriculture, manufacturing, IT, and financial services to renewable energy, healthcare, tourism, and creative industries.
Innovation and technology will be central, with digital solutions, fintech platforms, and e-commerce systems highlighted.
The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which enables transactions in local currencies between African businesses, will also be showcased.
A new “AU Village” will present continental achievements and progress under Agenda 2063, including dedicated spaces for women-led businesses in processing and young African start-ups. Organizers expect trade and investment agreements to surpass $44 billion, potentially setting a record for the IATF.
The fair comes at a critical moment as intra-African trade currently accounts for only 15% of the continent’s total trade. AfCFTA aims to increase this to 25% by 2030. Challenges such as non-tariff barriers, poor infrastructure, and limited access to trade finance for SMEs remain.
Algeria’s government, led by Foreign Trade Minister Mohammed Boukhari, has mobilized a high-level committee to ensure the success of the event.
The Palais des Expositions des Pins Maritimes (SAFEX) in Algiers will host the fair, reinforcing Algeria’s ambition to consolidate its position as a continental trade and business hub.
IATF 2025 promises to be the largest and most ambitious African trade fair to date, showcasing the continent’s economic potential and driving further integration.
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