Intra-African Trade Fair 2027 (IATF2027)

The fifth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2027) takes place in Lagos, Nigeria, from 5 to 11 November 2027. Co-convened by Afreximbank, the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the week-long fair brings together exhibitors, buyers, investors and governments to grow trade within Africa. This guide is for business delegations, exhibitors and the agencies that handle their travel.

About the Intra-African Trade Fair

The Intra-African Trade Fair is held every two years to support trade and investment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). It is one of the continent's largest business gatherings, with a large exhibition and a high-level programme of forums and meetings. The previous edition was held in Algiers, and Nigeria signed the host agreement for 2027 in Lagos in March 2026.

Afreximbank describes a diverse programme for IATF2027, including trade exhibitions, an AfCFTA-focused trade and investment forum, business-to-business and business-to-government meetings, a Global Africa Day for the diaspora, a creative economy showcase, an automotive show, a youth start-up pavilion and a research and innovation hub. Registration and updates will be published on the official IATF website.

For companies in North Africa, the Gulf and across Africa, the fair is a chance to meet buyers, suppliers and investment partners from many African countries in one place.

IATF2027 dates and venue

Afreximbank lists IATF2027 from 5 to 11 November 2027 in Lagos, Nigeria. The organisers will confirm the exhibition venue, opening hours and the detailed programme on the official IATF website, so check there before booking hotels close to a particular site.

How to get to Lagos for IATF2027

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Ikeja is Lagos's international gateway, with links to the Gulf, North Africa, Europe and cities across Africa. Domestic flights also use the airport's domestic terminals.

Pre-booked transfers, taxis and ride-hailing services are the most practical ways to get around. Lagos traffic can be very heavy, especially between the mainland and the islands, so allow plenty of time. Travellers should check the official entry requirements for Nigeria before booking.

November is usually at the start of the dry season in Lagos, with warm and humid weather. Pack light business clothing and allow for high temperatures during outdoor parts of the programme.

Where to stay

Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Lekki have many business hotels and serviced apartments, while Ikeja is convenient for the airport. Once the venue is confirmed, choose an area that limits daily journeys across the city. A week-long fair with international delegations will put pressure on hotel stock, so reserve early and confirm cancellation terms.

Planning a group trip to IATF2027

Trade delegations attend IATF to exhibit, meet buyers and suppliers, explore investment opportunities and follow AfCFTA policy discussions. Register through the official IATF channels, and use any matchmaking or B2B meeting tools the organisers offer to book appointments in advance.

Plan for a full week: arrive a day early, assign team members to the exhibition and the forum sessions, and arrange cars and drivers for the group. Add site visits or meetings with Nigerian companies before or after the fair.

Frequently asked questions

When is IATF2027?

Afreximbank lists the fifth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2027) from 5 to 11 November 2027 in Lagos, Nigeria. It is held every two years and this is the first edition in Nigeria. Venue, opening hours and programme details will be confirmed on the official IATF website.

Who organises the Intra-African Trade Fair?

IATF is co-convened by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat. Nigeria is the host country for 2027. The fair is held every two years.

What will the fair include?

Afreximbank lists trade exhibitions, an AfCFTA trade and investment forum, B2B and B2G meetings, a Global Africa Day, a creative economy showcase, an automotive show, a youth start-up pavilion and an innovation hub.

How do companies register to exhibit or visit?

Exhibitor and visitor registration will be handled through the official IATF website. Check the site regularly for registration openings and deadlines. Plan early, as the fair runs for a full week. Delegations should register each member separately and keep confirmations to hand.

Which airport serves Lagos?

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Ikeja is the main international airport for Lagos, with links to the Gulf, North Africa, Europe and across Africa. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are the most practical way to get around.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to IATF2027 in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.