Benin/Consumons Local Month: National market for the exhibition and sale of local products opens

The 6th edition of the "Mois du Consommons Local" in the Republic of Benin is now underway. The Minister of Industry and Trade, Madame Alimatou Shadiya ASSOUMAN, officially launched the Marché National d'exposition-vente des produits locaux on Wednesday October 15, 2025, at the Place de l'Étoile Rouge in Cotonou. The event was attended by the Prefect of the Littoral region, Alain OROUNLA, and several other personalities. This initiative is part of the drive to enhance and promote "Made in Benin", in line with the government's vision of boosting consumption of local products.

The Marché National d'exposition-vente brings together dozens of companies, craftsmen, cooperatives and producers from all over the country. They exhibit a wide variety of agri-food products, textiles, cosmetics, handicrafts and much more, illustrating local know-how and Beninese creativity.

According to GAIN Benin Country Director Françoise SAYI, promoting Consommons Local is an economic, nutritional and patriotic act. In the same vein, the Head of Swiss Cooperation in Benin, Madame Gabriella SPIRLI, said: "Consuming locally will boost Benin's economy and increase the incomes of Beninese men and women.

In her opening address, Minister Alimatou Shadiya ASSOUMAN praised the commitment of local economic players, and reaffirmed the willingness of President Patrice TALON's government to support them further. She invited the population to favor the consumption of Beninese products, a guarantee of job creation, economic growth and national sovereignty: "This national market is not a market like any other. It's really a showcase for our know-how and our potential. In six years, this initiative has become a veritable national movement, a cry from the heart for pride in "Made in Benin", an invitation to redefine our consumer habits around our own wealth".

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by a guided tour of the stands.

For several days, visitors will be able to discover and buy 100% Beninese products, and take part in events, tasting sessions and professional exchanges. The 6th edition of the "Mois du Consommons Local" promises to be a wonderful celebration of creativity, quality and national pride.

Source: www.gouv.bj/