The 26th Addis Chamber International Trade Fair (26th ACITF) commenced at the Addis Ababa Exhibition and Development Center, under the theme “Spurring Development through Innovation,” gathering business communities, exhibitors, visitors, diplomatic corps, government representatives, and invited guests.

However, concerns arose over the lower-than-expected turnout, with fewer participants compared to previous years. It was anticipated that over 60 domestic and foreign businessmen from the manufacturing and technology sectors would attend the trade bazaar.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Mesenbet Shenkute, President of Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce & Sectoral Association, acknowledged the subdued participation, attributing it to prevailing peace challenges both domestically and internationally. She expressed optimism, stating, “This is expected, and the numbers will increase when conditions stabilize.”

The New Chamber Trade Fair, an annual event, saw the presence of local and foreign businessmen engaged in diverse fields. Shenkute emphasized the government’s emphasis on new technology infrastructure projects, highlighting their significant positive impact on business growth.

Running from February 22 to 26, 2024, the 26th ACITF marks the second trade show of the year, aiming to foster innovation-driven development and economic growth within the region.