The 2015 Trade Winds program offers U.S. companies the opportunity to explore eight markets in Sub-Saharan Africa. Hosted in South Africa, the Trade Mission will feature an Africa focused business forum, consisting of regional and industry specific conference sessions as well as pre-arranged consultations with U.S. Senior Government Diplomats representing commercial markets from 19 different countries throughout the region. There will also be multiple trade mission stops that will give participants the opportunity to conduct business-to-business meetings with pre-screened firms in Angola, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Trade Winds–Africa offers companies the opportunity to:
Learn how to increase profits and overcome barriers in Sub-Saharan Africa Network with the region's leading industry experts, government officials, and experienced U.S. and global companies Meet one-on-one with top business experts from U.S. Embassies and Consulates in the region for the latest market entry strategies and insight Identify and meet with qualified, potential, Africa-based partners
This event is a response to the rapid growth and opportunities in the region. Between 2001 and 2008, Africa was one of the fastest growing regions of the world with an average annual growth rate of 5.6%. Stable macroeconomic conditions, coupled with structural reforms, formed the basis of this growth. Africa is also the world's second-largest and second-most-populous continent making it ripe with opportunities for U.S exporters. In addition, 26 African states form the Tripartite Free Trade Agreement making trade within Africa much easier and more efficient.