Movement to strengthen trade between Canada and Africa continues to gain momentum

Ottawa, July 28, 2025 – The Association Internationale des Douaniers Francophones (AIDF) joins a group of leading organizations committed to strengthening trade between Canada and Africa. The new Memorandum of Understanding between Bridge-Bridge Canada and the AIDF is part of the Canada-Africa Forum on the Port Industry and the Blue Economy (CAPBLEU) to be held in Moncton, NB, from November 11 to 13, 2025.

"As the project leader of the CAPBLEU Forum, Pont-Bridge is very pleased to count on the support of AIDF, a distinguished partner," said Mr. Yaye Peukassa, Founder and CEO of Pont-Bridge Canada. "His expertise in contemporary customs issues will be of great benefit to us."

This new memorandum of understanding will help understand and address customs issues. "This is the basis for ensuring and promoting good practices between African and Canadian customs," explains Mr. Doumont, President of the AIDF. "Ensuring better integration of customs practices into the blue economy and port management is essential for international trade and secure supply chains."  

The two organizations will also work hand in hand to maximize participation in the forum and its impact. "We strongly believe in the relevance and timeliness of this Forum," added Mr. Doumont. "That's why we will be relentlessly promoting it to our members and institutional partners, in addition to collaborating with Pont-Bridge on the co-construction of some of its content."

"CAPBLEU 2025 will address, among other things, the sustainable development of port infrastructure, trade facilitation and the promotion of the blue economy, all of which are crucial issues for the African and Canadian economies," added Mr. Peukassa. "In today's environment where national economies must move away from dependence on the United States, this is a most promising step."

ABOUT AIDF

The AIDF is a professional association that brings together officials and experts in the customs services of French-speaking countries. It works to build capacity and customs cooperation at the international level.

ABOUT PONT-BRIDGE CANADA

Based in Ottawa, Pont-Bridge Canada is an economic development firm between Africa and Canada specializing in capital raising, structuring partnerships and risk management. It supports governments and businesses and creates sustainable investment corridors in the port, energy, financial, technology and education sectors.

For information or interviews

Eunice Boué

Director of Communications and Media Relations
communication@pont-bridge.com | https://www.forumcanadaafrique.com/