Cameroon will host the ninth International Craft Fair, or SIARC 2026, from July 27 to August 5 at the National Museum in Yaounde. The event is expected to attract exhibitors from more than 25 countries.
Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts Minister Achille Bassilekin III announced the details at the launch of the fair’s communication campaign in Yaounde on July 23.
Held under the theme, “Between Tradition and Modernity: How Can We Boost Craft Innovation?”, SIARC 2026 will bring together artisans, professional buyers, investors, financial institutions, researchers, designers, entrepreneurs and development partners from Cameroon and abroad, according to the ministry, known as MINPMEESA.
Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire have been named guest countries of honor. The fair will also showcase the craftsmanship and cultural heritage of Cameroon’s ten regions.
The event comes as authorities seek to make the country’s handicraft industry more competitive and expand its access to local, regional and international markets. Government figures presented at the campaign launch show that the sector supports more than three million Cameroonians and is a significant source of employment, particularly for young people and women.
Innovation and Training at the Center of SIARC 2026
New features planned for this year’s fair include expanded training on product standardization and certification, a dedicated innovation and creativity pavilion and a souvenir shop promoting local products. Workshops will also introduce vulnerable young people to craft professions.
The Regional Heritage Days, introduced during the previous edition, will return, giving each region an opportunity to present its traditions, products and cultural identity.
The program will include high-level conferences, capacity-building workshops, trade exhibitions and cultural events. A formalization space will help artisans better structure their activities, while training sessions will cover innovation, design, digital marketing, intellectual property, standardization and certification.
“After many highly successful editions, SIARC has become a genuine international platform for business, professional networking, cooperation, trading and cultural outreach,” Bassilekin III said. “SIARC is much more than an exhibition.”
A Platform for Business and Market Access
The professional exhibition will feature artisans working in arts and decoration, clothing and accessories, machinery, furniture, agro-processing and services. Activities dedicated to the guest countries, along with conferences, networking sessions and cultural showcases, will run throughout the ten-day event.
By bringing artisans together with buyers, financiers and investors, the government expects SIARC 2026 to facilitate commercial exchanges and increase the visibility of Made-in-Cameroon products. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to generate wealth and employment while developing craftsmanship into a stronger contributor to economic activity and export growth, according to MINPMEESA.
Mercy Fosoh
