The Côte d’Ivoire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI-CI) officially inaugurated the second edition of the International Suppliers and Investors Fair in Africa (SIFIA 2026) this past Tuesday at Plateau. Under the theme “Connecting businesses, creating markets, and accelerating growth,” the event kickoff featured a dedicated Business Networking session bringing together economic operators, investors, and partners.
SIFIA 2026: beyond a trade show to drive business expansion
Marc Ekressin, SIFIA Commissioner General, framed the gathering not as a conventional trade fair but as a catalyst for enterprise growth. “Today, I’m not here to discuss a trade show—I’m here to discuss the growth of your businesses,” he stated, urging participants to secure clients, partnerships, contracts, and new markets before departing.
First edition’s success fuels higher ambitions
The inaugural SIFIA delivered measurable outcomes: 130 exhibitors, 1,700 qualified visitors, 17 partnerships formalized, five international companies established in Côte d’Ivoire, and over 4.5 billion FCFA in generated business volume. Organizers are leveraging this track record to elevate expectations for SIFIA 2026.
SIFIA IAPA: a year-round business accelerator
A key innovation this year is the SIFIA IAPA intermediary system, designed to operate before, during, and after the event. It systematically identifies company needs, identifies prospects and partners, arranges business meetings, and provides post-event follow-up. “A meeting should become a contract,” Ekressin emphasized, underscoring the platform’s commitment to tangible results.
Public-private synergy for SME financing
Ekressin also called on public authorities and financial institutions to intensify support for small and medium-sized enterprises through financing mechanisms better aligned with their operational realities.
Call to action: secure growth, not just a booth
Addressing business leaders directly, he urged proactive participation: “Don’t just reserve a booth—reserve your growth.”
By strengthening ties between companies, investors, and partners, SIFIA 2026 aims to convert networking opportunities into concrete deals and propel the private sector forward.
