Africa Trade Fair Makes Its Debut In Malaysia, Set To Generate Deals Worth US$50 Million

By Abdul Hamid A Rahman KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Africa Expo 2022 (AE2022) is the first business-to-business (B2B) tradeshow dedicated to African business owners and professionals to showcase their products in Malaysia, which will serve as a gateway to the Asian market, and is expected to generate US$50 million in business transactions. AE2022 organising chairman Hema Kandy in an exclusive interview with Bernama on Tuesday said that Africa is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. However, limited access to business connections, establised B2B partners and quality marketplaces represent challenges to break into the Asia-Pacific markets. “Thus, AE20022 aims to bridge that gap by connecting African industry players with key stakeholders in Malaysia,” Kandy said. The event is organised to promote trade between Africa and Asia with Malaysia as a springboard to enter the Asian markets. “Malaysia is an ideal springboard to the Asia-Pacific market, thanks to its strategic location, ease of doing business, well-connected infrastructure, excellent fibre optic technology, as well as skilled workforce,” she said. The three-day Nov 9-11 event at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur will feature over 150 booths. There will be conferences, business-matching sessions, summit and roundtable discussions, and Africa leadership business awards for rising stars across industries. The awards are to recognise business leaders who have demonstrated innovation, profitability, and business excellence while serving as role models to inspire the world’s next generation of entrepreneurs. Admission is free and is open to the public and business professionals. It is expected to attract over 10,000 trade visitors from Malaysia and globally. Kenya governor, the county government of Bomet, Professor Hillary Kipngeno Barchok will officiate at the event. The inaugural event will feature sectors like agriculture, banking and finance, business services, chemical and biotechnology, construction, cosmetics, drones, robots, education and training. Other sectors include fashion, textiles and footwear, food and beverages, gems and mining, halal services, healthcare and wellness, infrastructure, lifestyle, machinery and automotive, pharmaceuticals, technology, and travel and hospitality. For more information visit www.africa-xpo.com -- BERNAMA