The 20th Lomé International Fair is open

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Extract from the article: La 20ème édition de la Foire Internationale de Lomé (FIL) a été officiellement ouverte, le vendredi 28 novembre 2025 à Lomé. Cette édition coïncide avec le quarantième anniversaire du Centre Togolais des Expositions et Foires (CETEF - TOGO 2000...

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The 20th edition of the Lomé International Fair (FIL) officially opened on Friday, November 28, 2025, in Lomé. This edition coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Togolese Exhibition and Fair Center (CETEF-TOGO 2000). This major event, which makes the Togolese capital the heart of regional business opportunities, will run until December 14, 2025. The central theme is: “40 years of history, 20 editions: a look at the past, a focus on the future.”

The opening ceremony was presided over by Kossi Ténou, Deputy Minister of Trade and Quality Control. The objective of this 20th edition goes beyond that of a simple trade fair. It is positioned as a strategic platform to promote the Togolese economy, stimulate investment, encourage international partners, and showcase local expertise. This year's theme invites Togo to move towards a more connected and innovative economy.

The Lomé International Fair is not only an exhibition and sales space. It is also a catalyst for opportunities, a place for strategic meetings, and an incubator for partnerships. “The theme invites us to revisit the path we have traveled, to honor all those who, since 1985, have contributed to making the Fair a major showcase, while projecting us toward new horizons of modernity and global competitiveness,” said Minister Kossi Ténou.

The event marks four decades of commitment to regional development. According to Dr. Alexandre de Souza, Director General of CETEF, the ambition is to “position Lomé among the three major economic events in the sub-region.”

The People's Republic of China is the guest of honor at this year's fair. “China's presence further reaffirms the international dimension and spirit of openness of the Lomé International Fair. It also reflects the depth of Sino-Togolese friendship, built on mutual trust and respect as well as a shared vision of progress,” said Minister Kossi Tenou.

More than 30 Chinese companies are present, covering strategic sectors such as energy and agri-food.

The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Togo, Min Wang, explained that in these uncertain times, China remains convinced that opening its doors is essential for global progress and development.

“China wants to unlock the potential of its large market, enable its partners in Togo to benefit from this huge market, and work together with the Togolese people to create new opportunities for development,” she said. 

China Day is scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Special features of this edition

To improve the experience for visitors and exhibitors, CETEF has introduced several innovations. Bookings, payments, and badges are now managed digitally via e-FIL. B2B business meetings have been doubled. Notable commercial events are being organized: Black Friday (December 5, 2025) and Blue Night (December 12, 2025). A Quality Office has been created, and a toll-free number (8992) has been set up for security and alerts. The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the stands. 

Esther KOLANI