After attending the recent Lagos International Trade Fair, Japan has stated its intention to improve trade relations with Nigeria.
In a statement, Tokashi Oku, the Managing Director and Trade Commissioner for the Japanese External Trade Organization, expressed Japan’s hope for a closer alliance between the two nations at upcoming trade shows.
At the fair’s closing ceremony, Oku emphasized the accomplishments of the event while pointing out that this year’s attendance was lower than anticipated because of Nigeria’s economic situation.
Indeed, given that the economic climate was difficult and had an impact on the number of participants, we anticipate that the economy will rebound. However, he said, “We just try to expect a stronger relationship between Nigeria and Japan even in this situation.”
The trade commissioner revealed that even with fewer tourists, Japanese businesses continued to have fruitful business meetings and signed important contracts with Nigerian companies.
“I think some business discussions and prominent contracts are steady, even though the number of visitors is declining,” Oku continued.
“This year, reflecting on the economic challenges, we felt that visitors are decreasing compared to last year,” Oku said, expressing confidence in a stronger 2025 edition of the trade show and considering the possibility of improved commercial engagement. However, only the number of visitors is increasing in the midst of the event.
Nigeria has declared that it will be attending the Japan Expo in April 2025, Oku added.
We are eager for Nigerians to attend the expo, as the country recently stated its intention to do so. In essence, this is a global event, and Nigeria, in my opinion, is among the key nations,” he said.
