Türkiye-Denmark Forum on African Opportunities

In collaboration with the Trade Council of Denmark in Turkey, the Investment Fund for Developing Countries (IFU), and Denmark's Export and Investment Fund (EIFO), we are inviting Danish companies to attend a summit focused on infrastructure projects in Africa, alongside Turkish contractor companies (EPCs).

Can Infrastructure Projects Be the Gateway to the African Market?
It is - according to the government - “Africa’s century.” Several of the world’s fastest-growing economies are located on the African continent, which means there will be an unprecedented need for infrastructure development and investment. These investments could include energy and water supply, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure, all of which will contribute to the economic, social, and green development of the continent.

Why Collaborate with Turkish Contractor Companies?
Turkish EPCs (engineering procurement and construction companies) are among the largest in the world, both in terms of number and market share. They are particularly active in the surrounding regions and are increasingly expanding their presence in Africa. In 2023, Turkish EPCs were responsible for about 1,900 infrastructure projects across Africa, with a total value exceeding USD 85 billion. This number continues to rise as Turkey strengthens its relations with African countries.

Turkey’s growing relations with Africa are supported by direct flight connections, trade, investments, as well as cultural and educational exchanges. This makes Turkey an excellent gateway to the African continent, with Turkish EPCs increasingly establishing a presence there and seeking partnerships to finance and deliver solutions - including from countries like Denmark. Areas of shared interest include East Africa, along with countries such as Senegal and Ivory Coast. Turkish EPCs are involved in a wide range of projects, from railways, roads, and power plants to water treatment facilities, hospitals, residential and office buildings, and industrial plants. Sustainable Danish solutions and financing options could play a key role in these projects.

What Will Happen?
The event in Istanbul on May 23 will bring together Danish and Turkish stakeholders to discuss upcoming infrastructure projects in Africa. The program will include presentations from both sides, networking opportunities, and specific B2B meetings. This meeting will provide a rare opportunity to gain direct insight into how Turkish EPCs operate, establish contacts with Turkish EPCs, and benefit from the synergy that comes with a collective Danish EPC initiative. This initiative aligns with the government’s focus on strengthening Denmark’s engagement in Africa and the need for a partnership approach to markets that will be new for many of the Danish participants.

On the Turkish side, the event will be held in cooperation with DI’s Turkish counterpart, DEIK, and the Turkish Export Credit Bank, Türk EXIM Bank. Members of DEIK and the Turkish Contractors Association (TCA) will also be invited to participate.