The Algerian capital, Algiers will become the epicentre of African trade as it prepares to host the 4th edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) from 4 to 10 September 2025.
With a view to this landmark in Africa’s trade integration, Diplomat magazine conducted an interview with H.E. Ms. Salima Abdelhak, Ambassador of Algeria to the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Your Excellency, Algeria is preparing to host the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) this September. What does this event represent for Algeria and for the continent at large?
“IATF 2025 is far more than a trade exhibition—it is a landmark moment for Africa’s economic integration and a key platform for intra-African cooperation. For Algeria, hosting this 4th edition from September 4 to 10 in Algiers is both an honor and a reflection of our long-standing commitment to African unity and development.
This event comes at a critical time when global geopolitical balances are shifting.
The fair will serve as a beacon of exchange, ambition, and reciprocity, positioning Algeria as a strategic crossroads and reaffirming our role as a champion of continental development. To ensure that IATF 2025 becomes a benchmark event for the entire continent, all necessary resources are being mobilized under the leadership of the President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune—a committed Pan-Africanist who firmly believes in Africa’s ability to harness its own capacities to drive a new growth dynamic, fuelled by prosperous intra-African trade and strengthened through cooperation with global partners, particularly Europe, given its geographical proximity.”
What is the broader significance of IATF within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)?
“The IATF is a direct and tangible outcome of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), one of the most ambitious and transformative projects in Africa’s recent history. It is designed to promote trade among African countries, boost investment, and accelerate the continent’s integration into global commerce.
I speak from personal experience: I had the privilege of serving as a negotiator within the Algerian team during the AfCFTA negotiations. In that capacity, I witnessed firsthand Africa’s collective determination to lay the foundations of a unified economic space. It was a rigorous process—building consensus among diverse economies, aligning regulatory frameworks, and developing a shared vision for Africa’s economic future. It required diplomacy, perseverance, and above all, a deep belief in the power of integration.
To now see one of the key instruments of that vision—the Intra-African Trade Fair—being hosted in Algeria, is a source of great pride for me personally and for the Algerian nation. It is a clear sign that our efforts are bearing fruit and that the AfCFTA is moving from negotiation to implementation.”
What can we expect from Algeria’s participation in IATF 2025, especially in terms of economic outreach and trade?
“Algeria’s participation will be dynamic and multidimensional. The fair will offer a powerful opportunity to highlight our country’s export potential, industrial strengths, and growing logistical infrastructure. Algerian businesses—across sectors—will be able to network, build partnerships, and access new opportunities across the continent.
At the same time, Algeria’s positioning as a regional logistics and trade hub will be on full display. With strategic connections to Africa, Europe, and the Mediterranean, we are well placed to play a bridging role that supports both continental and international trade flows. This is in line with our broader economic vision: to diversify our economy and solidify our presence in African markets through innovation, investment, and cooperation.”
How do you see the role of international partners, particularly European countries like the Netherlands, in IATF 2025?
“While the IATF is a platform for African integration, its reach is undoubtedly global. With the AfCFTA granting access to an integrated African market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding $3.5 trillion, international partners have much to gain by engaging with this initiative.
European countries—such as the Netherlands—are expected to show strong interest in participating. IATF 2025 provides a unique setting for them to explore investment opportunities, forge trade alliances, and support inclusive growth across the continent. Algeria welcomes this engagement and stands ready to facilitate dialogue between African and international partners.”
Finally, what message would you like to send to participants and observers of IATF 2025?
“IATF 2025 represents a collective African ambition to trade with itself, to innovate from within, and to grow together. At the same time, it represents a dynamic and open continental market that actively seeks meaningful cooperation with partners around the world. I warmly invite all international stakeholders, including European and particularly Dutch to show strong interest in leveraging this platform to deepen trade and investment ties with Africa.
More details can be consulted in https://2025.iatf.africa/newfront/page/home
For Algeria, this is more than hosting an event—it is about reaffirming our historic commitment to African solidarity and our belief in Africa’s potential. I look forward to welcoming you to Algiers.”
