UCIMA is strengthening its footprint in Africa through its promotional brand We Make Packaging, which continues its international tour with two key trade shows: Propak East Africa in Nairobi (May 20–22) and Propak Mena in Cairo (June 2–4).
In Nairobi, UCIMA will coordinate a group of 17 Italian companies at the Sarit Exhibition Center in partnership with the Italian Trade Agency (ICE). Participating firms include Andreotti Impianti, Ballestra, Galdi, Goglio, Sacmi, SMI, and others. Italy currently ranks as Kenya’s third-largest supplier of packaging machinery, holding a 12.3% market share, with trade valued at €4.1 million.
“Trade fairs like Propak are not just exhibitions — they’re where partnerships are built,” said a UCIMA representative. “Africa is a region of growing industrial demand, and Italian companies are ready to contribute practical, durable solutions.”
Following the Nairobi event, the initiative will move to Cairo for Propak Mena at the Egypt International Exhibition Center. Egypt is the continent’s second-largest importer of packaging technology, behind Algeria. In 2024, Egypt’s packaging machinery imports reached €207.6 million, up 30% from the previous year. Italy holds a leading position, with €70.3 million in exports to Egypt — a 58% year-on-year increase.
The tour underscores UCIMA’s effort to connect Italian manufacturers with emerging markets. By organizing joint participation in trade fairs, UCIMA aims to give companies direct access to local buyers and help them understand regional needs.
These events reflect the growing importance of East and North Africa in the global packaging market and signal a steady demand for industrial technology grounded in reliability and efficiency.