Togo’s CETEF plans year-round events to strengthen economic impact

Economic governance

Thursday, 09 April 2026 16:29

Togo’s CETEF plans year-round events to strengthen economic impact

(Togo First) - The Togolese Center for Exhibitions and Fairs (CETEF) aims to strengthen its role in the country’s economy and expand its impact. The institution plans to become a “national platform for economic promotion” within three years, Director Alexandre de Souza said during a press meeting in Lomé on Wednesday.

“We want to ensure year-round visibility,” de Souza said. “The site must truly become a national platform for economic promotion.”

The strategy is based on a broader events calendar designed to improve visibility and sustain economic activity throughout the year.

Building on rising attendance

CETEF is building on the recent performance of the Lomé International Fair. In 2025, the event attracted more than 803,000 visitors over 16 days, with 1,150 exhibitors from 26 countries. Beyond attendance, B2B meetings generated 240 commercial leads from 827 sessions, reflecting growing interest in business networking.

For the director, who has held the position since 2023, these results should serve as a basis to strengthen the centre’s position at the sub-regional level. “We must significantly improve our sub-regional positioning,” he said.

The “Togo 2000” centre is also expanding its activities to the regions. “Made-in-Togo” fairs have already been held in Kara, Niamtougou, Notse and Vogan, with new editions planned in Sokodé and Aného in 2026.

“For three years, we have been organising Made-in-Togo fairs in the regions,” de Souza said, noting that the initiative directly supports local businesses, particularly outside the capital.

Upcoming Lomé International Book Fair (FI2L)

The 2026 calendar includes several sector-specific events, including the Lomé International Book Fair (FI2L), organised in partnership with the Togolese Writers’ Association. The event has been revived after being halted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Other events will focus on health and year-end activities.

The sixth edition of the Lomé International Book Fair is scheduled for April 24–25, 2026, according to organisers.

CETEF also plans to share more data on its economic and social impact to raise its profile among public and private stakeholders. The centre aims to consolidate its role as a business hub, capable of facilitating trade, attracting investors and supporting the development of local initiatives in a competitive regional environment.

Established by decree in 1982, CETEF is a public body responsible for trade promotion in Togo. Based in Lomé, near Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport, it manages the “Togo 2000” site. The centre primarily organises the Lomé International Fair, a major event that facilitates exchanges between local and international companies and serves as a key platform for economic visibility in the country.

Ayi Renaud Dossavi

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