Togo-Benin: the second PRIMA meeting in Kara targets a 30% increase in agricultural trade

The town of Kara is hosting the second regional meeting between the chambers of commerce and industry of Togo and Benin, dedicated to trade in agricultural products, until Friday November 21, 2025. The event is part of the Programme Régional d'Intégration des Marchés Agricoles (PRIMA), financed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development over a six-year period.

In particular, PRIMA aims to increase agricultural transactions between the two countries by 30% on targeted cross-border corridors. The program aims to achieve more fluid market integration, improve trade and boost the competitiveness of agricultural businesses. Regional coordination is provided by AARA under the aegis of ECOWAS.

Divided into four components, PRIMA focuses on agricultural trade and rural entrepreneurship. According to Mawadè Dogo, delegated operational coordinator for PRIMA-Togo, the work focuses on market integration, trade facilitation and structuring rural entrepreneurial initiatives. Activities also include the construction of agricultural works, the development of planned agricultural development zones, and the rehabilitation of tracks to facilitate product transport.

This second meeting follows a first edition held in December 2024 in Benin. It brings together public decision-makers, agro-entrepreneurs, farmers' organizations and research institutions from both countries. Discussions focus on the implementation of previous recommendations, operational progress, cross-border cooperation and the promotion of local products.

At the same time, a fair-exhibition of agricultural products is being held until Saturday November 22, 2025 on the esplanade of the Palais des Congrès in Kara. It will enable agro-entrepreneurs from both countries to showcase their products and enhance their business opportunities.

The official opening of the event was chaired by Alex Kpanté Bouab, representing the Togolese Minister of Agriculture. The Minister recalled the contribution of agricultural trade to the national GDP and the need to reinforce growth through better trade integration.

Source: www.togofirst.com/