Côte d’Ivoire hosts major african suppliers and investors forum

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Côte d’Ivoire (CCI-CI) inaugurated the second edition of the International Salon of Suppliers and Investors in Africa (SIFIA 2026) on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the Plateau district in Abidjan. The event, centered on the theme “Connecting businesses, creating markets, and accelerating growth”, kicked off with a dynamic Business Networking session bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and key partners.

Growth beyond a trade show: the SIFIA 2026 vision

Marc Ekressin, Commissioner General of SIFIA, made it clear: this is not just another professional gathering. « Today, I’m not here to talk about a trade show. I’m here to talk about the growth of your businesses, » he emphasized. His message was direct—participants should leave with new clients, partnerships, signed contracts, and expanded markets.

The success of the first edition speaks for itself: 130 exhibitors, 1,700 qualified visitors, 17 signed partnerships, five international companies established in Côte d’Ivoire, and over 4.5 billion West African CFA francs in generated business volume. These results set a high benchmark for SIFIA 2026.

SIFIA IAPA: a structured pathway to business opportunities

A standout feature of this year’s event is the SIFIA IAPA intermediary system, designed to support businesses before, during, and after the salon. This initiative includes identifying company needs, connecting with prospects and partners, organizing business meetings, and ensuring post-event follow-up. As Ekressin put it, « Every meeting must lead to a contract. »

He also called on public authorities and financial institutions to provide stronger support for SMEs and SMIs by offering financing mechanisms tailored to their operational realities.

From participation to growth: a call to action for entrepreneurs

In a final appeal to business leaders, Ekressin urged proactive engagement: « Don’t just book a booth. Invest in your growth. » The SIFIA 2026 initiative aims to deepen connections between enterprises, investors, and collaborators, transforming networking into tangible business opportunities and fueling private sector growth in the region.