Propak West Africa Expo poised to drive SME, manufacturing growth

NIGERIA – The 12th edition of Propak West Africa, the region’s leading exhibition for packaging, plastics, printing, and processing, is set to accelerate the growth of Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) when it opens its doors from September 9 to 11, 2025, in Lagos.

The event is expected to host over 5,500 professionals and showcase more than 250 global brands, making it a key platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and investment in the country’s fast-growing food, FMCG, and packaging sectors.

According to the organizers, Propak West Africa will provide SME manufacturers with practical insights to overcome bottlenecks such as high production costs, limited access to finance, and inadequate packaging solutions.

“This year’s agenda is focused on helping SMEs unlock their growth potential through innovation and collaboration,” the organizers noted.

The conference will feature high-level discussions across three days. Day one will open with the Propak West Africa Summit, where industry leaders including Segun Ajayi-Kadir, DG of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, and Engr. Dr Dele Abioye, MD of BUA Foods, will share perspectives on shaping the future of packaging.

Executives from Guinness Nigeria, UAC Foods, and PZ Wilmar will also take part.

On the second day, KPMG will lead an executive session on data management for sustainable packaging systems, with speakers such as Mosopefolu George, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Lagos State, and Oluwasoromidayo George, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Coca-Cola.

The final day will spotlight Made-in-Nigeria manufacturing, featuring contributions from Dr Bunmi Kole-Dawodu, Lagos State Manager of SMEDAN, and representatives from First Bank of Nigeria, Promasidor, and VertoFX.

Propak’s growing relevance across Africa is evident from its recent editions in East and Southern Africa.

Earlier this year, Propak East Africa in Nairobi attracted over 5,000 visitors and 150 exhibitors, with strong participation from regional FMCG firms and technology providers exploring new packaging automation.

Similarly, Propak Southern Africa, held in Johannesburg, drew significant international interest, particularly in sustainable packaging and recycling technologies, which remain critical for African countries balancing industrial growth with environmental goals.

These successes highlight how Propak has become a continental hub for sharing innovations, strengthening regional supply chains, and driving investment in local manufacturing.

As Nigeria pushes to expand its non-oil economy, the Lagos edition will provide a crucial platform for SMEs to connect with global expertise and chart new growth pathways.

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