By Baboloki Semele
In a historic move to strengthen economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean, the Government of Grenada and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have officially signed an agreement to host the 4th AfriCaribbean Trade & Investment Forum (ACTIF2025). The event, set to take place in St. George’s, Grenada, on July 10-11, 2025, is expected to draw over 800 high-profile delegates, including heads of state, business leaders, and policymakers from both regions.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Grenadian Prime Minister H.E. Dickon Mitchell, Afreximbank President Prof. Benedict Oramah, and Dangote Industries President & CEO Aliko Dangote, marking a significant step toward fostering economic collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean.
A Platform for Investment & Growth
ACTIF2025 will serve as a critical platform for investment, trade expansion, and knowledge exchange. With a focus on key sectors such as tourism, logistics, agriculture, IT, energy, and the creative industries, the forum is set to unlock new opportunities for businesses and investors across both regions.
One of the forum’s central themes is the establishment of an Africa-Caribbean free trade area, a vision aimed at reducing trade barriers and enhancing market access between the two regions. By leveraging shared histories, cultural ties, and economic strengths, ACTIF2025 will play a pivotal role in advancing a unified and prosperous trade ecosystem.
Building Stronger Africa-Caribbean Ties
The growing partnership between Africa and the Caribbean is driven by a mutual commitment to economic resilience and sustainable development. Afreximbank has been instrumental in bridging the two regions through financial support, investment facilitation, and trade promotion.
Grenada’s strategic role as host underscores its position as a regional hub for investment and business, particularly in sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and digital transformation. The forum is expected to catalyze new business deals, partnerships, and policy initiatives that will drive economic diversification and job creation.
A New Era of Collaboration
ACTIF2025 represents more than just a business gathering; it is a call to action for African and Caribbean nations to collaborate, innovate, and build a future of shared prosperity. By deepening economic relations and fostering stronger trade networks, the event will lay the foundation for a new era of cooperation between two regions with immense potential.
As the countdown to July 2025 begins, all eyes are on Grenada as it prepares to welcome leaders, investors, and visionaries dedicated to shaping the future of AfriCaribbean trade and investment.