The Australia Africa Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the first-ever Australia Africa Business Summit in Melbourne, Australia from May 12-14.

The conference is under the theme 'New Bridges. Creating Connections.'

It aims to bring together country leaders, government officials, industry players, and representatives from the African private sector to enhance trade and investment between Australia and the continent.

The Australia Africa Business Summit will focus on agribusiness, Mining Equipment Technology and Services (METS), Energy, Green Technology, Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing, Tourism, and Financial Services. Attendees will have full access to Australian decision-makers, senior executives, and international trade experts across various sectors.

Delegates will hear from keynote speakers such as Don Farrell, Australia's Minister for Trade and Tourism, and Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking ahead of the summit, the President of the Australia Africa Chamber of Commerce, Duncan Harris, said, “The partnership between Australia and Africa has witnessed consistent growth over the years, and the inclusion of the AU into the G20 reflects the unity, strength, and potential of African nations.”

“The Summit aims to facilitate in-depth discussions about bilateral and multilateral trade opportunities. Bringing together business leaders, governments, policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs from both continents in Melbourne, it offers practical pathways for others interested in entering these markets.”

“Melbourne is positioned to lead new bilateral relationships and business engagements. As the multicultural capital with the largest African population in Australia, Melbourne is both a leader in international trade and investment and a hub for booming innovation.”

For his part, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, said, “Africa has the potential to surpass China as the ‘world’s factory’ and is inviting Australian investors with promises of seamless trade across borders, reduced political instability, and a rapidly growing young workforce with lower labour costs.”

“With a market of 1.3 billion people and a GDP of $3.4 trillion, investors entering this market will likely see significant benefits and returns on their investments in the future within a competitive continent.”

Taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Summit will cover a broad range of business and economic topics, from investment opportunities and trade agreements to innovation, sustainable development, and more.

The Summit anticipates over 500 in-person delegates daily, with an additional virtual audience. It provides opportunities for government, business-to-government, and business-to-business meetings and matchings.

The Australia Africa Chamber invites businesses and industries in Africa interested in attending the summit to register before April 20, 2024.

The Summit is organized by the Australia Africa Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).