In the days leading up to the official inauguration of the Togo International Handicrafts Market (MIATO), set to take place from April 23 to May 4, 2025, at the Togolese Exhibition and Fair Center (CETEF), preparations are progressing smoothly. This was confirmed by the Minister of Commerce, Handicrafts, and Local Consumption, Rose Kayi Mivedor, during a recent site visit to assess the status of the preparations. ‘I came to observe the progress and ensure that everything is on track for MIATO, which will commence on April 23, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for the 25th,’ the minister stated.
The 2025 edition will be hosted at CETEF, also referred to as the ‘Togo-2000 Fair,’ which is more spacious and better equipped to accommodate the 310 booths occupied by exhibitors from 14 countries across West Africa, Central Africa, and the Maghreb. With the theme ‘The Protection of Artistic Works: Issues and Challenges,’ MIATO 2025 aims to promote artisanal creativity and regional cultural trade, featuring Burkina Faso as the guest of honor. ‘Delegations have been confirmed, including ministers from Burkina Faso, the guest of honor, and Niger, along with two ministers from Central Africa, specifically from Congo Brazzaville and Gabon… Overall, everything is set,’ added Rose Kayi Mivedor. In addition to trade, the event will showcase cultural activities, fairs for artisans lacking birth certificates, and highlight the artisanal wealth of the Plateaux.
It is worth noting that the previous edition in 2023 saw participation from over 800 exhibitors, both Togolese and international, including representatives from Belgium, Tunisia, Cameroon, Gabon, Chad, Burkina Faso, Benin, and notably Mali, which was the guest of honor.
