SABA annual report highlights growing Scottish push into African markets
The Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA) released its 2025 Annual Report in January, outlining how Scottish organizations are increasingly pursuing African markets as part of their international growth strategies. The report details activity delivered across Scotland, London and multiple African regions during the past year.
SABA highlighted expanded trade missions, inward delegations and high-level convening as central to its work, alongside rising member participation from both Scottish companies and African partners. The organization said this activity reflects growing confidence among firms seeking structured pathways into African markets.
Membership increased across sectors including energy, agriculture, maritime, education, skills training and digital innovation. These gains were supported by programmes such as hydrogen roundtables, executive briefings and the continued expansion of Scotland London Africa Week.
SABA said its role increasingly focuses on turning market interest into practical engagement by facilitating direct conversations between businesses, institutions and in-country partners.
Advisory growth and trade context
The organisation expanded its advisory capacity through SABA Consult, providing market intelligence, sector research and tailored introductions for Scottish companies operating in priority African markets. This service was positioned as a key enabler for firms navigating unfamiliar regulatory, commercial and cultural environments.
The report places this work within the broader Scottish trade picture, where international exports were valued at an estimated £37.7 billion in 2023. Exports to Africa remain a relatively small share, with destinations such as Nigeria accounting for modest values, reported at around £5.6 million in a recent period.
Around 11,000 Scottish businesses export internationally, underlining the scale of untapped opportunity across global markets. Surveys cited in the report show that roughly 30% of Scottish mid-sized firms now identify Africa as a potential destination for new trade routes.
Chief Executive Officer Frazer Lang said the past year demonstrated rising appetite among Scottish companies to explore African markets, supported by practical market access and in-country connections. He added that SABA’s role is to help businesses move from ambition to active commercial engagement.
Chief Operating Officer Seona Shand said the organisation focused on delivering value by making engagement more informed and strategic. She noted that growing participation across programmes signals demand for trusted guidance and clearer entry points into African markets.
Direction for the coming year
Looking ahead, SABA plans to expand its outward trade missions across North, West and East Africa while increasing inward delegations to Scotland. These initiatives aim to create more direct engagement between Scottish firms and African counterparts.
The organisation will also scale Scotland London Africa Week and deepen sector focus in energy, hydrogen, agriculture, aquaculture, ports and maritime, infrastructure, and education and skills training. Enhanced member support through SABA Consult will remain a priority.
SABA’s annual report identifies Africa as a high-potential region for long-term partnership and investment aligned with Scotland’s strengths in innovation, energy and skills development.
