The Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) marked a significant and strategic presence at FITA 2026 (Financing Investment and Trade in Africa Forum) held in Tunis, one of Africa’s most prominent platforms dedicated to investment, infrastructure development, and international trade. The forum brought together a diverse mix of government leaders, global investors, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders, all focused on accelerating Africa’s economic transformation and strengthening cross-continental partnerships.
FITA 2026 placed strong emphasis on infrastructure development, investment facilitation, and Africa’s positioning as a global growth engine. Within this context, Tunisia emerged as a critical bridge between Europe and Africa, offering a strategic entry point for international businesses. With bilateral trade between India and Tunisia steadily growing and ambitions to significantly scale it further, the forum provided an ideal platform to deepen economic engagement and explore new avenues of cooperation.
A key highlight of IETO’s participation was the organization of a high-level panel discussion titled “Economic Triangulation between India, Tunisia and Africa.” The panel explored the concept of a trilateral economic corridor, where India’s manufacturing strength, Tunisia’s logistical and geographic advantage, and Africa’s expanding consumer and investment markets can be effectively integrated. The discussion focused on Tunisia’s potential as a gateway for Indian companies seeking structured and efficient entry into African markets, while also enabling reverse investment and collaboration.
Adding a diplomatic perspective, Rajiv Kumar, Chargé d’Affaires of the Indian Embassy in Tunisia, highlighted the growing strength of bilateral ties, stating,
“Bilateral trade between India and Tunisia has already crossed the $500 million mark, and both sides are actively working towards achieving $1 billion in the near future. With Tunisia’s skilled workforce, favorable investment climate, and strategic location, we are encouraging Indian enterprises to use Tunisia as a base for expansion into Africa.”
Beyond dialogue, IETO ensured that the outcomes of FITA 2026 translated into tangible partnerships. In a significant development, the India Africa Trade Council and the SCO Trade Council signed a series of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key international partners. These included Zz N’Chare Company Sarl in Cameroon, which will support trade facilitation, company formation, and investor services in Central Africa; Accelerate Africa, aimed at strengthening startup ecosystems and fostering innovation-led growth across the continent; and de Capoa Law Firm, which will provide critical legal, regulatory, and advisory support for businesses expanding into European markets.
Dr. A.V. Srinivasan, Chairman of the SCO Trade Council, emphasized,
“The agreements and partnerships emerging from FITA 2026 demonstrate the importance of institutional collaboration in building sustainable trade ecosystems. By aligning policy, industry, and investment frameworks, we are creating a structured pathway for businesses to expand confidently across Africa and Europe.”
These collaborations collectively create a robust ecosystem for Indian enterprises, addressing every stage of international expansion—from market entry and regulatory compliance to investment structuring, local partnerships, and business operations. They also reflect a broader vision of building integrated trade corridors that connect India not only with Africa but also with Europe through strategic intermediaries like Tunisia.
Dr. Chetna Ilpate, Honorary Trade Commissioner under the India Africa Trade Council, noted,
“Africa today represents one of the most dynamic frontiers for global growth. Through targeted partnerships and sector-focused engagement, we are enabling Indian enterprises—particularly SMEs and startups—to access new markets and contribute to inclusive development across the continent.”
The engagements at FITA 2026 open up significant opportunities for Indian businesses across a wide spectrum of sectors. From infrastructure and development projects aligned with Africa’s growth priorities, to digital innovation and technology-driven solutions, to agriculture, food processing, and sustainable energy, the scope for collaboration is both diverse and scalable. At the same time, enhanced access to legal services, consulting frameworks, and investor support systems ensures that Indian companies can navigate new markets with greater confidence and efficiency.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Asif Iqbal, President of the Indian Economic Trade Organization, stated:
“Our participation at FITA 2026 reflects India’s growing commitment to building meaningful and future-ready economic partnerships across Africa and beyond. Platforms like FITA enable us to move beyond discussions and create actionable frameworks for collaboration. By fostering triangulated partnerships between India, Tunisia, and Africa, we are unlocking new pathways for trade, investment, and innovation. These efforts are not only expanding opportunities for Indian businesses but are also contributing to shared economic growth across regions.”
IETO’s presence at FITA 2026 reinforced its role as a key facilitator of global trade and investment linkages. By combining high-level policy dialogue, business networking, and strategic agreements, the organization continues to position India as a proactive partner in Africa’s development journey.
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