Utrecht, 2 October 2025 - VNU Europe, part of Royal Jaarbeurs and organiser of VIV Worldwide, announces a major expansion of its activities in Africa. In 2027, VIV Africa will take place for the first time in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. With this, VIV will introduce an annually changing exhibition format: in even-numbered years in Kigali, Rwanda and in odd-numbered years in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. VIV Africa is currently already successfully organised in Kigali, giving VIV a solid foundation in East Africa. VIV Worldwide is the global portfolio of trade fairs for the animal protein chain, featuring in the Netherlands, Thailand, Abu Dhabi, Vietnam, Philippines, Turkey, China, India and Indonesia, among others.
Strategic expansion into a rapidly growing region
This strategic move underlines Africa’s growing importance in global animal protein production and responds to the sector’s increasing demand for access to regional markets. West Africa in particular offers significant opportunities thanks to rapid population growth, rising demand for high-quality proteins and investment in livestock, poultry and aquaculture.
Alternating trade fair format: annually in East and West Africa
“Abidjan is a vibrant city and a gateway to West Africa,” said Jeroen van Hooff, CEO of Koninklijke Jaarbeurs and president of the VNU Group. “By alternating between East and West Africa, we offer our exhibitors and visitors better access to the markets and people they wish to reach.”
Strong local support from the sector
The choice of Abidjan is widely supported by local trade associations such as IPRAVI (poultry), INTERPORCI (pig sector) and INTERAQUA (aquaculture). They see VIV Africa as a unique opportunity to strengthen regional expertise, innovation and cooperation.
Abidjan Exhibition Centre: ideal venue for international trade fair
The exhibition will take place at the modern Abidjan Exhibition Centre, a venue with excellent facilities and accessibility. In addition to the trade fair, VIV Africa will offer an extensive programme of seminars, networking opportunities and a Leadership Conference on 5 October 2027, ahead of the official opening on 6 October.
