AfCFTA is a big step for Africa, and India should be part of this journey

Dr Asif Iqbal, President, Indian Economic Trade Organisation

In this interview, Dr. Asif Iqbal, President, Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), shares insights into India’s growing economic diplomacy with Africa. He reflects on IETO’s journey, the role of business delegations and cultural initiatives in building trust, and the opportunities that lie ahead with Africa’s evolving trade landscape.

 

IETO has grown significantly under your leadership. Can you walk us through your vision when the organisation began, and how that vision has evolved, especially in the context of India–Africa economic diplomacy?

When we started IETO, the main idea was very simple — to connect India with new and growing markets, especially in Africa. In the beginning, it was about trade and building networks. Over the years, that vision has grown to include knowledge sharing, capacity building, and creating partnerships that benefit both sides. Today, our work with Africa is not just about business but also about supporting development and building long-term friendships.

 

IETO has led delegations to many African countries like Ethiopia, Gabon, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. From your perspective, how do such delegations help shape long-term partnerships and open new avenues of cooperation between India and Africa?

Delegations give us a chance to meet people directly, understand their needs, and show India’s strengths. These visits help build trust and open doors for new opportunities. When business leaders and governments talk face-to-face, it becomes easier to plan long-term projects in areas like agriculture, health, IT, and renewable energy.

 

At forums like the World Economic Forum and Paris Peace Forum, you have advocated for stronger trade ties. How have these platforms helped shape IETO’s policy and strategy towards Africa?

These global forums help us share India’s message to a larger audience and connect with leaders from many countries. They give us a chance to highlight Africa’s potential and to show how India can be a reliable partner. From these experiences, IETO has shaped its strategy to focus more on sustainable and people-driven partnerships, not just quick trade deals.

 

Which African region do you see as most promising for immediate mutual growth, and why?

East Africa has a lot of promise because of its location, young population, and openness to Indian business. Countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia are good partners in areas like IT, agriculture, and infrastructure. At the same time, West Africa, especially Nigeria and Ghana, is also becoming important for energy and technology partnerships.

 

IETO’s events such as the Green Iftar envisage culture as a gateway to dialogue. How have such initiatives influenced trade diplomacy with African nations?

Cultural events like the Green Iftar help build personal connections. They show that India cares about relationships, not just business. When people come together in a cultural setting, it creates goodwill and makes future business discussions much easier. It also sends a message that trade and culture go hand in hand.

 

With Africa launching AfCFTA and India deepening ties through capacity development, where does IETO position itself in shaping the next decade of trade?

AfCFTA is a big step for Africa, and India should be part of this journey. IETO wants to act as a bridge, helping Indian companies — especially small and medium ones — connect with African businesses. Our role will be to support skills training, technology sharing, and digital trade. In the coming years, we want IETO to be seen as a trusted partner that brings India and Africa closer together.