The 10th edition of Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria, a prominent trade fair focusing on agriculture, food processing, plastics, printing, and packaging, is poised to significantly boost business development and knowledge exchange between Nigerian and German stakeholders. Organized by Fairtrade Messe, the event has been instrumental in fostering innovation and growth within these crucial sectors of the Nigerian economy over the past decade. With Germany designated as the Guest of Honour for the 2025 edition, the platform aims to leverage German expertise and facilitate collaborations, fostering a mutually beneficial exchange between the two nations. This partnership underscores the growing recognition of Nigeria’s potential as a key player in these industries.
The upcoming event, scheduled for March 2025 in Lagos, is expected to attract over 100 exhibitors from more than 15 countries, showcasing a wide array of products, technologies, and services. Official national pavilions from countries like China, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, and South Africa will further enrich the international representation, creating a vibrant hub for networking and business opportunities. Key ministries from both the federal and Lagos State governments are also expected to participate actively, demonstrating the importance of these sectors to Nigeria’s economic development agenda. The presence of these government bodies signifies a commitment to fostering growth and attracting foreign investment in these vital industries.
A central component of the trade fair will be a comprehensive three-day conference featuring over 70 speakers across more than 20 sessions. These sessions will delve into critical industry topics, offering valuable insights and fostering knowledge sharing among participants. A dedicated banking and finance segment, featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and an investment pitch competition, will further enhance the event’s focus on facilitating investment and driving growth within these sectors. This segment will provide a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect with potential investors and explore funding opportunities.
The co-location of the West African Cold Chain Summit and Exhibition with Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria will further strengthen the event’s impact, addressing the critical need for efficient cold chain infrastructure in the region. This partnership between Fairtrade Messe and the Organisation for Technology Advancement of Cold Chain in West Africa highlights the importance of preserving food quality and reducing post-harvest losses, crucial elements in ensuring food security and economic growth. The summit will bring together experts and stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities within the cold chain sector, further contributing to the overall goal of enhancing food security in West Africa.
Nigeria’s investment in food and packaging technology reached €304 million in 2023, solidifying its position as the second-largest investor in Africa, trailing only South Africa. This significant investment reflects the country’s growing commitment to modernizing its food processing and packaging industries. While food imports remain substantial at $6.1 billion in 2023, highlighting the need for increased domestic production, Nigeria’s food production value has experienced significant growth, rising from €26 billion in 2016 to €36.3 billion in 2020, with projections reaching €62.6 billion by 2024. This growth trajectory underscores the potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector to meet increasing domestic demand and reduce reliance on imports.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s plastics sector has also demonstrated robust growth, with €134 million in investments in 2023, positioning it as the fourth-largest investor in Africa. The sector has experienced an impressive 13.9% annual growth rate since 2016, indicating its dynamic nature and potential for further expansion. Similarly, the printing and paper processing sector has also witnessed significant growth, with a 17% annual growth rate and imports reaching €92 million in 2022. These positive trends across various sectors demonstrate the overall dynamism of the Nigerian economy and its potential for sustained growth. The Agrofood and Plastprintpack Nigeria trade fair plays a crucial role in fostering this growth by providing a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and business development, ultimately contributing to the advancement of these key industries within the Nigerian economy and fostering stronger international partnerships.
