Africa’s agricultural sector stands at a critical juncture. Despite possessing 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land (World Bank, 2023), the continent remains a net food importer, with annual food imports expected to reach US$110 billion by 2025 (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, 2021). While agriculture contributes at least 17% to Africa’s GDP (OECD & FAO, 2022), inefficiencies in market access, infrastructure challenges, and trade barriers continue to limit the sector’s potential.
The solution lies in unlocking new regional and global markets, boosting agro-processing, and strengthening Africa’s position in international trade. That’s where Market Access Africa (MAA) 2025 comes in.
Taking place from 1st – 4th June 2025, at the Durban International Convention Centre, South Africa, Market Access Africa 2025 will bring together leading agribusinesses, policymakers, investors, and buyers from across the food and agriculture value chain to accelerate Africa’s trade and investment opportunities.
Hosted by the African Agri Council (AAC), the event will focus on enhancing agricultural trade, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving investment into value-added production to reduce Africa’s dependence on raw commodity exports.
“Africa’s agricultural sector holds immense promise, but without improved market access, that potential remains untapped. Market Access Africa is about breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and positioning Africa as a global powerhouse in agricultural trade,” says Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council.
As Africa works to position itself as a key player in global agricultural trade, Market Access Africa 2025 offers a crucial platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and business development. By bringing together industry leaders, investors, policymakers, and buyers, the event will play a pivotal role in shaping strategies that enhance market access, drive sustainable trade, and unlock investment opportunities across the continent. With a strong focus on agro-processing, regional trade integration, and innovation, MAA 2025 will set the stage for long-term economic growth in Africa’s agricultural sector. Now is the time for African agribusinesses to scale, expand, and redefine their role in the global food economy.
