The Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) has reported strong growth in 2025, citing increased membership, higher engagement across sectors, and expanding trade links between Scotland and Africa.
According to SABA’s Annual Report, membership rose in areas including energy, education and skills training, agriculture, maritime, and digital innovation.
The organisation hosted trade missions, inward delegations, hydrogen roundtables, executive briefings, and its flagship Scotland London Africa Week, creating opportunities for Scottish companies and African partners to connect.
SABA also expanded its advisory services through SABA Consult, offering market intelligence, sector research, and tailored introductions. “Our work is helping businesses turn ambition into action, whether through market insight, in-country access, or practical introductions that help accelerate commercial conversations,” said Frazer Lang, SABA’s Chief Executive Officer.
Seona Shand, Chief Operating Officer, added, “The growth in membership and participation across our programmes shows that companies want practical pathways into African markets and trusted guidance along the way.”
Despite Scotland’s total international exports reaching an estimated £37.7 billion in 2023, trade with Africa remains limited, with exports to Nigeria reported at around £5.6 million. Yet about 30% of mid-sized Scottish firms identify Africa as a target for new trade routes, reflecting growing interest in the continent.
Looking ahead, SABA plans to expand outward trade missions to North, West, and East Africa, increase inward delegations to Scotland, and scale up Scotland London Africa Week.
It will also deepen sector focus in energy, hydrogen, agriculture, aquaculture, ports, maritime, infrastructure, and education, while strengthening member support through SABA Consult.
