The 39th Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) kicked off last weekend with Japan Pavilion taking the largest space of 2,625 square meter, an addition of 500 square meters compared to 2024 fair.
According to Takashi Oku, Trade Commissioner of Japan External Trade Organisation, (JETRO), the large space to exhibit Japanese products and culture is not only a demonstration of confidence in Nigerian economy but to give visitors room to enjoy Japanese culture.
Oku said 47 firms were participating at this year’s Lagos trade fair, explaining that 37 firms were exhibiting at the main pavilion and others are showcasing at the Super Japan section, a new entertainment innovation at the pavilion.
According to him, visitors to the Japan Pavilion will be hosted to “Super Japan in Lagos” on Friday, November 14 and Saturday, November 15. This year marked the 10th year of JETRO’s participation at the trade fair, he said.
Susuki Hideo, Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, indicated his country’s keen interest in fostering partnerships between Japanese businesses and Nigerian startups. “Japanese companies are interested in collaborating with startups in Nigeria because the startups are promising”.
He said Nigerian startup are very promising. He spoke to BusinessDay last weekend at the sideline during the kick off of the fair.
Over time, the startup ecosystem in Nigeria, including fintech, agritech, logistics, and healthtech, and many more has demonstrated enormous potential, positioning the country as Africa’s largest innovation hub.
He said there is so much space for Japanese and Nigerian investors to collaborate. Some companies are manufacturing here in Nigeria and “I want to see more in that direction”, he said.
On expectations from Nigeria, he said they are engaging on comprehensive dialogue with government agencies focusing on duties, concessions and work permits among others.
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