By Ben Eguzozie.
Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, and seven other nations are leading Africa’s printing industry projected to reach a value of $235.3 million by the end of 2031, according to data from the SGI in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The SGI Dubai, a leading global showcase for cutting-edge printing and signage solutions, is gearing up and hoping to further revolutionise the continent’s printing industry landscape with an exhibition set to hold at the Dubai World Trade Centre in September.
Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, chairman of IEC, said African economies are poised to become a powerhouse of opportunities on the global stage. “The demand for cutting-edge printing and signage products and services is destined to soar across the continent, fuelled by the remarkable growth of its commercial printing industry. The innovations unveiled at SGI Dubai 2023 will be the catalyst that ignites an extraordinary transformation in the African printing sector. This exhibition is not just a platform for business-to-business interactions; it is an ecosystem of innovation and knowledge, connecting brilliant minds from diverse vertical sectors,” he said.
Africa boasts approximately 2,000 commercial companies, with a majority comprising small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs). An additional 1,000 companies cater for pre-press and post-press services, showcasing rapid expansion of the thriving sector.
Falaknaz informs that SGI Dubai 2023 will showcase an array of industries, with special emphasis on digital display technologies, labelling, metal cutting & engraving, spare parts & consumables, software, paper, and ground-breaking technologies such as 3D printing and artificial intelligence. The show will serve as an unparalleled opportunity for African sign-makers, print and production manufacturers, media agencies, car wrapping industry, real-estate developers, hospitality and tourism industries, architects, and brand consultants to explore limitless possibilities and elevate their businesses to new heights.
He said the show’s significance for the African continent includes the growth strategy for the continent’s stakeholders; presenting not only an exceptional platform for sourcing top-of-the-line machines with the latest technology, but also fostering meaningful connections among industry professionals.
According to the organisers, the 26th edition of SGI Dubai promises to be a game-changer for African stakeholders, with industry experts, visionaries, and trendsetters from around the world converging to unveil the latest innovations that will propel the continent’s printing industry into an era of unrivalled growth and prosperity.
“We’ve witnessed a steady surge in the number of African trade visitors year after year, representing key nations such as Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Cameroon, South Africa, Sudan, Ghana, Namibia, Tanzania, Egypt, and Libya, among others. The proximity of our show to Africa makes it highly accessible for business owners to engage directly with exhibitors and manufacturers of top brands, securing the most competitive rates”, Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, chairman of IEC, said.
