The Association of African Exhibition Organisers emphasises the importance of connection and collaboration in business tourism to support in the economic growth of the continent.
In a world that is increasingly interconnected, Global Exhibitions Day (GED) – an initiative by UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibitions Industry, stands as a powerful reminder of the vital role that exhibitions play in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and facilitating global partnerships. The overall theme for GED 2023 is We run the meeting places and marketplaces for everyone.
Together with GED, The Association of African Exhibition Organisers highlights the importance of business tourism as a catalyst for growth and progress through its ability to connect people, industries, and ideas.
Having a profound impact on economies worldwide, tourism – including business tourism – contributes significantly to GDP and job creation with 7.6% contributed to global GDP in 2022, marking an increase of 22% from 2021. Additionally, 22 million new jobs were created by tourism in 2022, representing a 7.9% increase compared to 2021.[1]
“Business tourism serves as a transformative force, empowering the African continent by igniting economic growth, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and unlocking boundless opportunities for collaboration and development,” says Naji El Haddad, Regional Director at UFI.
With the ever-increasing positive impact on the African economy, Devi Paulsen-Abbott – Chairperson of The Association of African Exhibition Organisers – highlights key areas in which business tourism contributes significantly to the continent:
Economic Growth and Job Creation
Exhibitions are crucial drivers of economic growth, both locally and globally and bring together businesses, investors, and customers, providing a platform for trade, investment, and collaboration. By showcasing products, services, and innovations, exhibitions stimulate business activities, resulting in increased sales, contracts, and investments. Events also generate employment opportunities across various sectors, ranging from event management and logistics to hospitality and tourism.
Knowledge Sharing and Innovation
Exhibitions bring together experts, thought leaders, and professionals from diverse industries, creating a fertile ground for the exchange of ideas, best practices, and cutting-edge technologies. The collaborative environment nurtured by these events facilitates innovation and inspires breakthroughs in various fields from medical advancements to sustainable technologies.
International Collaboration and Networking
One of the most significant benefits of exhibitions is their ability to foster international collaboration and networking opportunities. Exhibitions attract participants from different countries and cultures, enabling cross-border partnerships and business expansions, providing a platform for companies to connect with potential clients, suppliers, distributors, and investors from around the world, opening doors to new markets and facilitating trade relationships.
Industry Advancement and Market Insights
Exhibitions offer a unique opportunity for industry players to stay updated on the latest market trends, emerging technologies, and consumer demands. By attending exhibitions, professionals gain valuable insights into their respective sectors, enabling them to adapt and innovate in response to market changes through specialised conferences, seminars, and workshops that provide educational sessions and thought-provoking discussions.
“Global Exhibitions Day serves as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the profound impact of exhibitions on our world. These events not only drive economic growth and create job opportunities but also foster innovation, knowledge sharing, and international collaboration. Exhibitions have consistently proved their worth in connecting people, businesses, and ideas, leading to breakthroughs, partnerships, and market advancements,” concludes Paulsen-Abbott.
As we commemorate Global Exhibitions Day, let us recognise and appreciate the importance of these events in shaping our future and driving global progress.
For more information on The Association of African Exhibition Organisers’ contribution to GED locally, visit www.aaxo.co.za
About The Association of African Exhibition Organisers
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers is a collaborative platform primarily representing exhibition organisers in Africa. This collaboration guarantees an investment in the growth and development of exhibitions as well as industry challenges being addressed. Having earned the acclaim as an association that delivers on its obligations, AAXO is committed to promoting the industry, encouraging businesses to invest and participate in exhibitions, affording members tools and resources for successful exhibition management, and encouraging world-class industry standards. This dedication is evident in AAXO’s commitment to linking organisers to a network of suppliers and opportunities to ensure growth in the exhibition industry.