Tunisia Hosts Second African Edition of BIE Capacity Building Program
Minister of Commerce and Export Development, Samir Abid, Opens Second African Edition of BIE Capacity Building Program
May 20, 2026
Tunis, Tunisia - The Minister of Commerce and Export Development, Samir Abid, presided over the plenary session of the second African edition of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) Capacity Building Program on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
The event was attended by the BIE Secretary-General, the President-Director General of the Centre de Promotion des Exportations (CEPEX), and representatives from ten African countries, international experts, and delegates from upcoming universal and specialized exhibitions.
In his opening address, Samir Abid emphasized the importance of the program, which he considers a tool for economic diplomacy and a lever to stimulate international competitiveness. He noted that international exhibitions have become platforms for economic influence, spaces for healthy competition between nations, and drivers of global visibility.
The Minister added that these global events represent a concrete opportunity for African countries to optimize their economic positioning, translate their potential into active presence on the international stage, and evolve the continent's image in a sustainable manner.
Abid also highlighted Tunisia's experience in this field, which has enabled the country to strengthen its economic diplomacy, support its export promotion strategy, and improve its attractiveness for investments. He stressed that the success of a participation in these major events depends on rigorous preparation and effective strategic planning.
The Minister also emphasized that the Tunis session is part of a continuous strategic process, following sessions in Libreville, Saint John's, and Lima, and aligning with upcoming international events: Osaka 2025, Belgrade 2027, and Riyadh 2030.
Samir Abid insisted on the need to develop inter-African cooperation in the sector of international exhibitions through the sharing of expertise, mutualization of efforts, and the establishment of complementary approaches. He believes that this synergy will strengthen the collective influence of African states, raise their competitiveness, and perpetuate their presence on the global stage, particularly as Africa is experiencing rapid dynamics, continuous growth, and constant innovation, making it a key player in the global economy.
In conclusion, the Minister of Commerce and Export Development reaffirmed Tunisia's commitment to a more integrated, competitive, and influential Africa, expressing the hope that this session will yield concrete results and new partnership opportunities for all participating countries.
