Johannesburg is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events in the sustainability calendar. From 18–20 September 2025, the Organic and Natural Products Expo Africa will take over the Sandton Convention Centre, bringing together groundbreaking African innovators, township entrepreneurs, and international buyers for three days of networking, trade opportunities, and knowledge sharing. This year promises to be the largest edition yet, with more than 2,500 registered trade visitors and over 250 attendees confirmed for the co-located Africa Bio Trade Festival (ABF).
Building Bridges Between Local Innovation and Global Markets
“The interest we’re seeing from international buyers shows just how much the world recognises Africa’s potential in the organic sector,” says Warren Hickinbotham, Head of Sponsorships and Partnerships for the Expo. “At the same time, this platform allows local entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. The expo is the bridge between grassroots innovation and commercial success.”
Women’s Imbizo: Leading Voices in Sustainability
One of the highlights will be the Women’s Imbizo on Saturday, 19 September. Industry leaders will take the stage to address critical issues ranging from financial health to traditional medicine and agricultural education.
Key sessions include:
- Alan Rosenberg (SAOSO) – State of the Organic Industry in South Africa
- Nicci Robertson (Re-Invent Health) with Gary Jackson (Jacksons) and Lorraine Jenks (GreenStuff) – Food Design & Circular Economy
- Standard Bank Financial Health Panel
- Liz Letsoalo (Masodi Beauty) & Aobakwe Lenkwe (Scaled Impact) – Brand Stories of Black Female Founders
- Mpho Masondo (African National Healers Association) – The Economy of Muti and African Traditional Medicine
- Dr Jane Mackenzie (365 Healthy By Choice) – Rise to the Re-Awakening of the Feminine Being
- Farmers Weekly Panel led by Janine Ryan, featuring agricultural education experts
Township Innovation Takes Centre Stage
Through the Ekasi Labs programme, the Innovation Hub (a subsidiary of Gauteng’s Department of Economic Development) will showcase 20 township-based entrepreneurs representing 10 different communities.
“These entrepreneurs are eager for opportunities to connect with buyers and expand their markets,” says Hector Ndlovu, Business Development Officer at the Innovation Hub. “Each time we bring them to the expo, they come back asking when the next one is — that’s the impact this platform creates.”
Expanding Across Borders
With exhibitors and delegates from Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, and beyond, the expo has cemented itself as Africa’s premier sustainable living event. International organisations are also on board, including Germany’s Import Promotion Desk, which helps connect South African SMEs with European markets.
“Our mission is to support businesses to grow globally,” says Naomi Bossett of the Import Promotion Desk. “We’ve seen companies double exports and create jobs through these partnerships.”
Exhibitors’ Confidence Grows
Returning brands are investing even more into their participation. Andrew Visser, owner of Naturelle Beds, shared:
“After the incredible response we had earlier this year in Cape Town, we’ve increased our stand size. The people who come here are serious about organic living.”
Added Value for Visitors
Showgoers also stand a chance to win premium product hampers from exhibitors like Allulo, Sought After Seedlings, Naturelle Beds, Wellness Pantry, and New Moon Botanicals, thanks to the expo’s radio partner Hot 102.7 FM.
Africa’s Growing Organic Future
Backed by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Standard Bank South Africa, SAOSO, and other key industry associations, the Organic and Natural Products Expo Africa is more than just an exhibition. It’s a movement towards a sustainable future rooted in African innovation and traditional wisdom, while opening doors to global opportunities.
Dates: 18–20 September 2025
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg
More info: www.organicandnaturalportal.com/expo
Thanks for the support of organic foods.
Hope that this message will catch fire on all the corners of Jhb and RSA.
Would joining on line be possible. If so, forward the link
My is Fikile Mrali Iim a south African im selling Organo Gold Coffee as a network marketer for the Company called Organo Gold from Canada our South Africa branch is at Midrand Gallagher Estate I want to know about exhibition if you pay for the table if you want to exhibit your products
http://myogoffice.organogold.com/fiksmrali/zoom