Now in its 41st edition, TEI has become a key sourcing hub. TEI 2025 attracted 34,550 visitors, 8,045 buyers and 1,619 exhibitors, with potential transactions worth US$22.8 billion. This year’s event will feature B2B business matching, trade missions, seminars, business counseling, forums, networking nights, and academic tours.
Alieu Secka, Honorary Consul for Indonesia in The Gambia, said the recent Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) has created new momentum to turn diplomatic ties into economic cooperation.
He noted that meetings between the Indonesian Ambassador, the Honorary Consul, and Gambian businesses have already produced concrete requests. These include sourcing fast-moving consumer goods directly from Indonesian manufacturers, and a local carpentry and furniture factory seeking skilled Indonesian carpenters and technical expertise.
“Indonesia offers considerable possibilities as a sourcing and investment partner,” Secka said. “Its export base extends from food and beverages, processed agricultural products and household goods to furniture, textiles, personal care products, automotive products, machinery and industrial services.”
He added that cooperation can also cover skilled manpower, with Indonesian specialists working alongside Gambians to strengthen local capacity.
Secka said the Expo provides a timely platform to convert diplomatic engagement into measurable trade outcomes. He urged Gambian companies to clearly identify their product needs, quantities, specifications and potential investment partnerships to match them with Indonesian suppliers.
“The relationship should extend beyond importing Indonesian products,” he said. “The Gambia can position itself as a gateway for Indonesian businesses seeking opportunities in West Africa, encouraging partnerships in distribution, skills development, processing, light manufacturing and investment.”
His Excellency Ardian Wickasono, Indonesian Ambassador to Senegal, said TEI allows participants to secure direct distribution rights, negotiate competitive margins, and experience Indonesian manufacturing first-hand.
He said his Embassy is committed to mobilizing Indonesian companies, investors and state-owned enterprises to visit Senegal and West Africa.
“West Africa is no longer just the 'market of tomorrow' - it is a thriving, dynamic, high-growth market happening right now,” he said. “Senegal, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone are actively seeking high-quality manufactured goods, agro-industrial processing equipment, pharmaceutical solutions, and consumer products - sectors where Indonesia holds a distinct competitive edge.”
He described the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia as a bridge “that turns potential into concrete, high value trade realities.”
