State Minister Koga Attends the Kansai-Africa Business Forum

1. Kansai-Africa Business Forum

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) jointly held the Kansai-Africa Business Forum in Osaka, and State Minister Koga delivered the opening remarks. State Minister Koga touched on the importance of Japanese companies partnering with Africa as it undergoes rapid growth and developing together with it, and stated his support for promoting business expansion into Africa through collaboration between Japanese companies and Africa, collaboration with Indian Ocean countries, and public-private partnerships. He also expressed his expectation that the business forum will promote exchanges between Osaka/Kansai and Africa.

Prior to the Kansai-Africa Business Forum, African ministers also visited EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai. They observed a methanation demonstration facility and were briefed on the excellent technologies being showcased by Japanese companies at the Future City Pavilion. Participants were highly interested in the exhibits, asking various questions about them.

2. Meeting with Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry of the Republic of Ghana Ofosu-Adjare

State Minister Koga held a meeting with Hon, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry of the Republic of Ghana and exchanged views on bilateral economic relations. They confirmed the importance of further promoting business relationships and improving the business environment, including for small and medium-sized enterprises and startups.

3. Meeting with Minister of Industry and Trade of the Republic of Senegal Diop

State Minister Koga held a meeting with H.E. Dr. Serigne Gueye Diop, the Minister of Industry and Trade of the Republic of Senegal and exchanged views on bilateral economic relations. They confirmed that they will work together to advance discussions on further promoting public-private cooperation and improving the investment environment.

4. Remarks at a reception

State Minister Koga attended the Blue Africa Night Reception co-hosted by NPO ZERI Japan and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and delivered remarks as a guest of honor. Touching upon the holding of TICAD 9 and the Kansai-Africa Business Forum, he expressed his expectations for further promotion of exchanges with Africa.

Related Links

• Kansai-Africa Business Forum（JETRO HP）（in Japanese）
• The Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development（TICAD 9） (Ministry of Foreign Affairs website)

Division in Charge

Africa Office, Trade Policy Bureau