Côte d’Ivoire hosts second africa suppliers and investors forum

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Côte d’Ivoire (CCI-CI) hosted the official launch of the second edition of the International Suppliers and Investors Fair of 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 Business Networking session bringing together economic operators, investors, and partners.

Marc Ekressin, the General Commissioner of SIFIA, framed the fair not just as a professional gathering but as a catalyst for business expansion. “Today, I’m not here to discuss a fair—I’m here to discuss the growth of your companies,” he declared, urging participants to leave with new clients, partnerships, contracts, and untapped markets.

The success of the first edition set high expectations: 130 exhibitors, 1,700 qualified visitors, 17 partnerships signed, five international companies established in Côte d’Ivoire, and over 4.5 billion FCFA in generated business volume.

SIFIA IAPA: A 360-degree matchmaking solution

This year’s edition introduces the SIFIA IAPA, a comprehensive intermediation tool designed to “before, during, and after” the event. Its features include identifying business needs, prospecting for partners, scheduling business meetings, and post-event follow-ups. “A meeting should lead to a contract,” Ekressin emphasized.

Call for stronger public and financial sector support

Ekressin also called on government authorities and banks to bolster their support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small and medium industries (SMIs). He advocated for financing mechanisms better tailored to their operational realities to unlock their potential.

A growth mindset for entrepreneurs

Addressing business leaders, Ekressin urged proactive participation: “Don’t just book a booth—secure your growth.”

The CCI-CI and SIFIA 2026 aim to deepen ties between enterprises, investors, and partners, transforming networking into tangible opportunities and propelling the private sector’s expansion.