The countdown to Meetings Africa (MA) 2025* is officially underway, with media and visitor registration now open. Exhibitor and buyer registration, which began in November 2024, has already attracted strong interest, reflecting the growing anticipation for this premier event. Due to the surge in demand, exhibitors and buyers are encouraged to confirm their participation as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. As the continent's leading trade show for the business events industry, Meeting Africa promises great opportunities to engage with top buyers and discover innovative products and services.
Meetings Africa is a well-established trade platform with a proven track record of delivering excellent ROI for both buyers and exhibitors. For the past 19 years, South Africa has proudly hosted this prestigious event. Last year, Meetings Africa had a significant economic impact, contributing an estimated R420 million to the country's GDP, of which R215 million directly benefited the Johannesburg economy. The event also boosted Gauteng’s GDP by approximately R275 million and supported 563 jobs in the province.
“Meeting Africa is more than just a trade show; it is a powerful platform to showcase the talent, creativity and opportunities that Africa's business events sector has to offer,” said South African National Convention Bureau, a business unit of South African Tourism. said Björn Hafky, General Manager of MICE Sales at. “This year’s expanded offering reflects the vibrant and dynamic growth of the industry across the continent. We are proud that our country is the host of such a prestigious event and We look forward to showcasing the best of the world. This is a great opportunity to connect with our neighbors from across the continent.”
Exhibitor highlights
Meetings Africa 2025 welcomes the return of all major exhibitors, strengthening the event's position as a must-see platform showcasing Africa's best business events. Adding to this year’s excitement, seven new products from across Africa will debut, highlighting the innovation and diversity of Africa’s business events industry.
buyer interest
Since registration began, a total of 278 buyer applications have been received from 57 countries, including representatives from the South African core source market. All buyers are rigorously vetted by prominent international companies to ensure quality connections that will foster meaningful business opportunities for African exhibitors.
New buyer segment
In an exciting first, Meeting Africa 2025 will partner with the Council of Event Professionals in Africa (CEPA) to feature certified CEPA members as local and regional buyers. The initiative will support the engagement of SMEs and key stakeholders across the continent, fostering inclusive economic growth and expanding networking opportunities.
“Small businesses are the engine of Africa's economy,” adds Hufky. “By connecting small and medium-sized enterprises with influential buyers and stakeholders, Meetings Africa is driving growth and ensuring that opportunities in the business events sector are shared equitably across the continent.”
Educational program highlights
The 2025 edition of Meetings Africa will once again feature cutting-edge educational programs that address themes such as innovation, capacity building and the advancement of Africa's meetings and events industry. Speaker and session details will be announced soon.
Ongoing partnership with ICCA
Meetings Africa's collaboration with the International Conferences and Conventions Association (ICCA) continues to grow the event's global impact. The association sector is critical to the continent's economic growth, fostering innovation through knowledge sharing and driving sector growth by attracting investment and forming strategic partnerships.
“Our partnership with ICCA ensures that Meetings Africa remains at the forefront of global trends and delivers real economic impact for Africa,” said Mr. Hufkey. “Together, we are showcasing the potential of this continent and creating a legacy of innovation, collaboration and growth.
“Meetings Africa plays a key role in advancing Africa's business events sector, driving infrastructure development and positioning the continent as a global hub for innovation and business tourism. Innovative Conversations Don't miss the opportunity to participate in this innovative showcase and valuable business opportunities. Register and be part of shaping Africa's future.
Visit meetingsafrica.co.za to register and take part in this premier event.
*Meeting Africa 2025 is scheduled to take place from 24 to 26 February 2025 at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg. Meeting Africa is hosted by South African Tourism in collaboration with bidding partners including Tourism Johannesburg, Tourism Gauteng and Sandton Convention Center*.
Click here for more industry news.
