Côte d’Ivoire’s flagship business event kicks off in Abidjan
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Côte d’Ivoire (CCI-CI) has launched the second edition of the International Suppliers and Investors Fair of Africa (SIFIA 2026) at the Plateau district in Abidjan. Under the theme “Connecting businesses, creating markets and accelerating growth”, the event brings together economic operators, investors and partners for business networking sessions.
Marc Ekressin, General Commissioner of SIFIA, emphasized that this gathering is more than just a trade fair. “I’m not here to talk about a salon today. I’m here to talk about the growth of your businesses,” he declared, urging participants to leave with new clients, partnerships, contracts and expanded markets.
Measurable success from the first edition
The inaugural SIFIA event delivered impressive results: 130 exhibitors, 1,700 qualified visitors, 17 signed partnerships, five international companies establishing operations in Côte d’Ivoire and over 4.5 billion West African CFA francs in business generated.
SIFIA IAPA: a year-round business facilitation tool
A key innovation for this year’s edition is the SIFIA IAPA intermediation system, designed to support businesses before, during and after the event. It includes identifying company needs, prospecting for partners, arranging business meetings and post-event follow-ups. “A meeting should turn into a contract,” Ekressin stressed.
Call for enhanced public and financial sector support
The General Commissioner also called on government agencies and banks to provide better financing mechanisms tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small and medium industries (SMIs).
A growth-oriented participation strategy
Ekressin concluded by urging business leaders to approach the event strategically: “Don’t just book a booth. Secure your growth.”
The CCI-CI and SIFIA 2026 aim to deepen connections between businesses, investors and partners, transforming networking opportunities into tangible business outcomes and driving private sector growth across Africa.
