PROMOTE 2024: Italy envisages partnerships with Cameroonian enterprises.

The declaration was made at the Embassy in Yaounde February 16. This was during a in a press conference the Italian Ambassador, H.E Filippo Scammacca del Murgo, granted. 

Italy, the diplomat said, is participating at this international fair, which began on February 17, for the 7th time. 

This year’s participation, he added, is under the auspices of the Italian Trade Agency, ITA, which secured and guaranteed the participation of Italian enterprises at the fair.

Also present at the conference was the Director of ITA Luanda, which has competence in Cameroon, Andrea Ferrari. 

He explained that ITA’s mission in Cameroon is to create opportunities in industrial and commercial collaboration between Cameroonian and Italian enterprises 

“The considerable presence of Italian companies demonstrates the interest that the Cameroonian market represents for the Italian market. We expect to stimulate the growth of commercial relations between the two countries, by encouraging the strengthening of partnerships and creation of agreements that will favour companies of both countries,” Andrea Ferrari said.

With Italy being Cameroon’s third commercial partner, a total of 19 Italian enterprises are present at the Italian Pavilion at PROMOTE 2024, coming from different sectors such as construction, architecture and design; food industry, cheese and wine; agro industry, irrigation and agricultural equipment; and transport and logistics.

Andrea Ferrari added that ITA, as a government agency for promotion of international trade, is available for foreign enterprises seeking to establish relations with the Italian market, the main objective to help them find partners for the development of their companies.

Every year, ITA mobilises a delegation of Cameroonian enterprises to participate in international business fairs in Italy, notably Salone del Mobile; for housing and interior design; Vinitaly, for Italian wines; Samoter, for machines and engines and; Macfrut, for fruits and vegetables, among others.

The Italian Ambassador to Cameroon, Filippo Scammacca, highlighted that Italy’s participation in PROMOTE 2024 is particular in that it is the first time Italian financial institutions controlled by the Ministry of Finance will be represented.

Amongst them are investment banks and insurance companies, to promote local and foreign direct investments and development. He called on enterprises to approach these institutions and find out how they can contribute to the growth and development of their businesses.

“Cameroon has a lot of economic potential and opportunities and we are ready to join forces, share ideas and create value in sectors that need assistance. Backed by financial institutions, we hope to meet government agencies with view to work on and support concrete projects, especially in the energy sector, which is much needed in Cameroon, and that Italy has a strong reputation in. We seek to be useful and have more connection with companies in Cameroon,” the Ambassador said.

He reiterated the necessity to create jobs in the private sector, contribute to State revenue and economic growth as this will help upgrade the standard of living of the population.

PROMOTE 2024 Italy Day

The Ambassador also pointed out that February 22 is dedicated to Italy’s participation in this international fair. 

Known as Italy Day, it will be used to particularly encourage Italian and Cameroonian businesses to collaboration in key sectors. Members of government such as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Célestine Ketcha Courtès, will be present.

On this day, Jules Fondja, a Cameroonian in partnership with some Italian enterprises, will be showcased to share his story and encourage other Cameroonians and enterprises to follow suit. PROMOTE 2024 is scheduled to end on February 25.