Overview: A Strategic Move for Africa’s Continental Trade Agenda
The governments of Togo and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat have announced a postponement of the third edition of the Biashara Afrika Forum. Originally scheduled for November 3, the flagship trade and investment platform will now be held in March next year. The move underscores the organizers’ commitment to delivering a high-impact event that aligns with Africa’s broader aims of expanding intra-African trade and unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the continent.
What Biashara Afrika Brings to Africa’s Trade Narrative
Biashara Afrika serves as a premier platform for dialogue, dealmaking, and knowledge sharing within the AfCFTA ecosystem. It connects policymakers, investors, and business leaders with a focus on practical outcomes—such as investment commitments, policy clarity, and market access for SMEs. The February–March timing is expected to maximize participation from business communities, donors, and development partners looking to support AfCFTA’s goals.
Key Benefits for Participants
- Direct access to decision-makers shaping AfCFTA implementation strategies.
- Networking opportunities that convert into trade deals and joint ventures.
- Exposure to financing and credit facilities tailored to cross-border trade within Africa.
- Workshops on regulatory reforms, standards, and supply-chain resilience.
Why March? Context and Practicalities
While organizers have not cited a single reason for the shift, scheduling in March is likely intended to fit within national calendars, ensure robust participation, and allow more time for meaningful preparation. The postponement also provides a window to incorporate evolving AfCFTA policy updates, sector-specific opportunities, and stakeholder feedback from the current year’s deliberations.
Impact on SMEs and Investment Flows
Biashara Afrika has consistently highlighted its role in advancing SME competitiveness and regional value chains. A March edition could help unlock financing and partnerships for small manufacturers, agribusinesses, and tech-driven ventures seeking to scale across borders. By centering practical assurances—such as tariff-compliance pathways and harmonized standards—the forum aims to translate discussed commitments into concrete trade volumes and investment pledges.
What to Expect: Program Focus and Participation
Attendees can anticipate a robust program featuring keynote addresses, B2B matchmaking sessions, and panel discussions on AfCFTA implementation milestones. Expected themes include tariff liberalization progress, customs cooperation, and the digitalization of cross-border trade. The event will likely showcase success stories from early AfCFTA adopters and present blueprints for SMEs to navigate regulatory landscapes across member states.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Organizations planning to participate should monitor official channels from Togo’s government and the AfCFTA Secretariat for registration details, visa requirements, and venue information. Early engagement with partners, exhibitors, and potential financiers will help maximize the March forum’s impact. Stakeholders are encouraged to prepare concise proposals, case studies, and data on regional supply chains to enrich discussions and dealmaking opportunities.
