By LUCY OGALUE

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) says over 10 countries and 500 companies have indicated interest to participate at the 2023 Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF).

Dr Al-Mujtaba Abubakar, the ACCI President, said this during a news conference to herald the Fair in Abuja on Wednesday.

Abubakar, represented by ACCI’s Director-General, Ms Victoria Akai, said that the countries that had indicated interest to participate included Switzerland, Bulgaria, India, Chinese, Ghana, Guinea, Egypt, Syria and the UAE.

According to him, the fair is scheduled to hold between Sept. 29 and Oct. 9 at the Abuja Trade and Convention Centre and the ACCI open field.

The theme of the 18th AITF is, “Sustainable Financing and Taxation as Drivers for the New Economy”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AITF is a prestigious multi-sectoral event in the country that continues to expand its scope and influence.

Abubakar said that more companies are expected to participate in the event apart from the 500 that had indicated interest, while over 100,000 visitors within and outside Nigeria are also expected to attend.

“The spaces are fast being taken with very few remaining in the outdoor category. The transactions have also grown over the years.

“We are hoping to have a turnover of more than one billion naira this year and a lot more in the coming year,” he said.

The ACCI president said the theme of the event would serve as a platform for businesses to engage with financial and tax institutions, discuss current trends and solutions.

He added that it would also foster sustainable approaches to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“The event will showcase innovative products and solutions from our partners and exhibitors in various sectors such as Fintech, tax collection, payment systems, e-health, food processing and environmental safety.

“This year’s theme is centred on financing and taxation which is the cornerstone of any prosperous nation and, of immense importance to the business community.

“It is critical to addressing climate-friendly initiatives, the ease of doing business and attracting foreign direct investment,” he said.

On the benefits, Abubakar said the fair would among other things provide an enabling environment for businesses to discuss and interact with financial and tax institutions on current trends and solutions.

He said it would also work out a sustainable approach to AfCFTA, harmonise country requirements and create job opportunities for the young and old alike.

As a way of ensuring inclusiveness, Abubakar said the chamber was collaborating with Zenith Bank Plc to provide free stores to women-owned businesses within the framework of the Fair.

“A minimum of 25 stores will be given to food vendors to exhibit their products. We are also collaborating with the FCT Inland Revenue Service, and issues around tax harmonisation and double taxation would be sorted out,” he said.

The ACCI president said there would be side attractions such as a spinning wheel for a reward of ”urgent 2k”, 12 days of jollof rice, free transportation within the Fair arena and fashion show.

NAN reports that as one of the largest trade platforms in Africa, AITF offers exhibitors the opportunity to showcase new and innovative products, access untapped markets, forge invaluable business relationships and stay ahead of emerging trends.

It is dedicated to connecting businesses with lucrative trade and investment prospects within the country. (NAN)

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