As world trade undergoes dramatic changes fueled by growing tensions between major economies, its impacts have echoed through supply chains, procurement strategies and economic partnerships. The ongoing tariff dispute between the US and China, particularly between the US and China, has led to a job as high as 145%, forcing manufacturers and buyers around the world to rethink their procurement and trade partnerships. In the midst of this confusion, important opportunities are emerging. West Africa has established itself as an industrially ambitious and increasingly unified strategic partner in its investment response.
Regional integration efforts led by Africa's Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) are gaining momentum. Countries like Ghana are planning to increase regional exports by 6 percentage points, with Senegal's textile industry and Côte de Ivoire's leadership in cocoa processing and trade becoming an important pillar of Africa's industrial rise.
Nigeria is also actively involved in changes in these regions. Recently, the Finance Minister spoke out about the ongoing tariff dispute by Wale Edong, highlighting the opportunity for Nigeria to position itself as a competitive trade and investment hub. He highlights the possibility of attracting supply chain diversification and increasing the addition of regional value in key export sectors, and aligns with the country's broader industrial and economic strategies.
This perspective is central to the purpose of the West Africa Industrialization, Manufacturing and Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit & Exhibition 2025, which will be held at the Landmark Centre in Lagos from October 21-23, 2025. With the theme of “Accelerating the Sustainable Industrial Revolution for Economic Prosperity in West Africa,” the event explores ways in which the African economy can leverage changes in the changing world trade landscape to promote sustainable industry growth and diversification. The summit brings together government leaders, industry leaders, investors and development institutions to address the challenges posed by global supply chain disruption, protectionist measures and changing economic alliances.
Wemimo Oyelana, Africa's portfolio director at the DMG event, highlighted the pivotal role of the IMT Summit in West Africa. It highlights the infrastructure needed to sustainably power investments, local value chains, and industries. ”
The IMT Summit and exhibition in West Africa will be the cornerstones that will shape the future of industrialization in the region. Representatives will provide opportunities to participate in policy discussions, investment showcases and sessions on trade strategies, industrial innovation, infrastructure, digital commerce and finance, all aimed at accelerating industrial transformation in the region.
