Analysis by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) shows that one of the reasons why intra-African trade is at 16% of total African trade, on average, is the lack of access to trade and market information. To address this challenge, Afreximbank decided to, among other initiatives, convene biennial Trade Fairs to provide trade and market information,  connect buyers and sellers from across the continent and provide opportunities for matchmaking, business exchanges and conclusion of business and investment deals, among other objectives.

The inaugural IATF2018, which was organized in Cairo, Egypt, was a resounding success. US$32 billion in trade and investment deals were concluded. More than 1,000 exhibitors and 2,500 conference delegates from over 45 countries participated.

IATF2020 will provide a unique and valuable platform for businesses to access an integrated African market of over 1.2 billion people with a GDP of over US$2.5 trillion created under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).