LIGNA, derived from the Latin word lignum, meaning "wood," stands as a global beacon for the forestry and woodworking industries. Held biannually at the sprawling Hanover Exhibition Grounds in Germany, this trade fair has become synonymous with innovation, expertise, and the very essence of wood processing. Since its debut in 1975, LIGNA has flourished from a section within the larger Hanover Fair to a major international event, drawing professionals, manufacturers, and thought leaders from around the world to explore the latest advancements in woodworking, forestry, and sustainable technology.
The scale of LIGNA is staggering, with its exhibition grounds covering around one million square meters, offering an expansive platform for the latest innovations across the entire wood industry. The event’s focus is not just on showcasing products but on pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the fields of forestry, wood manufacturing, and bioenergy. From modern forestry equipment to the finest in woodworking machinery, LIGNA has become the essential meeting point for companies and individuals eager to push the envelope of what’s possible with wood.
One of the event’s most exciting features is the live demonstrations that bring the latest technologies to life. Visitors aren’t just passive observers—they can witness firsthand how state-of-the-art machinery and tools can enhance productivity and efficiency. These live demonstrations offer a tangible experience of the cutting-edge solutions that are revolutionizing industries like furniture manufacturing, wood-based panel production, and solid wood processing. For many, it’s an opportunity to see future-forward technology in action, something that can be difficult to gauge from a brochure or virtual presentation.
LIGNA’s global draw is a testament to its importance. With exhibitors from all over the world, the fair represents a melting pot of ideas and innovations in woodworking technology. The fair hosts hundreds of exhibitors across a wide range of categories: from sawmill machinery and woodworking tools to sustainable forestry solutions and bioenergy. As one of the leading trade fairs in the world, LIGNA is instrumental in shaping the future of woodworking and forest industries, offering not only the latest in machinery but also insights into the future of sustainable forestry and eco-friendly practices.
Beyond the machinery and tools, LIGNA acts as a vital platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and business development. Industry leaders, technical experts, and decision-makers come together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing their sectors, with many of them forging new partnerships and collaborations that drive the industry forward. The seminars and forums that run alongside the exhibition further contribute to this exchange, offering deep dives into topics such as digitalization in woodworking, automation, and sustainable production methods.
For anyone serious about the woodworking and forestry industries, LIGNA is an event that cannot be missed. It’s not simply a trade fair—it’s an experience that brings the world of woodworking to life, sparking innovation and pushing boundaries. From the buzz of live machinery demonstrations to the in-depth discussions on sustainability, LIGNA is a hub where the future of wood processing and forestry technology is being written. As a place where new ideas converge, LIGNA remains an indispensable event for anyone looking to stay at the cutting edge of the industry, shaping tomorrow’s woodworking solutions today.


In September 2024, the spotlight will once again shine on Hall 10 as it hosts the second installment of the Local Southern African Manufacturing Expo, in conjunction with Electra Mining Africa.
This expo stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Southern Africa's manufacturing landscape, spanning industries ranging from construction and mining to agriculture and power. Its expansive scope is dedicated to nurturing the region's manufacturing sector growth and fostering sustainability within local industry practices.
Following a debut that surpassed all expectations, the 2024 edition of the Local Southern African Manufacturing Expo anticipates exponential growth at its new venue alongside Electra Mining Africa, a renowned global showcase for mining and industrial innovation.
Operated in partnership with the South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC), this expo offers a dynamic platform for myriad decision-makers and buyers to engage with leading providers of cutting-edge manufacturing solutions, machinery, products, and services.
With boundless potential, the local manufacturing sector emerges as a pivotal driver of economic expansion, and the Local Southern African Manufacturing Expo emerges as the linchpin propelling this transformative growth.
Attendees can look forward to thought-provoking sessions at the Expo's dedicated Seminar Theatre, where industry luminaries will share insights on emerging trends and legislation, fostering dynamic dialogues and catalyzing innovation within the sector.


Sahara pioneers the path for agricultural professionals and eager investors, providing them with a gateway to explore the untapped potential of burgeoning markets. Through fostering robust business connections and facilitating the swift adoption of cutting-edge innovations and technologies, Sahara serves as a catalyst for progress while maintaining seamless cross-border communication channels.
With a legacy spanning over three decades, Sahara has honed its expertise to offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to support a diverse array of businesses, from fledgling startups to established agribusiness giants. By bridging the gap between large-scale enterprises and smallholder farmers, Sahara plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and synergy within the regional agricultural ecosystem.
As Sahara charts its course into the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to expansion and diversification, embracing new frontiers such as agricultural wastewater management, horticulture, post-harvest processing, and beyond. In doing so, Sahara continues to lead the charge towards sustainable agricultural development and economic prosperity across borders.


Elmia Agriculture stands as the beating heart of Sweden's agricultural vitality, igniting innovation, collaboration, and sustainable progress. Here, amidst an electrifying atmosphere, pioneers gather to cultivate fresh insights, forge alliances, and chart a course towards a future where agriculture thrives economically and ecologically.
In the upcoming event, our focus sharpens on nurturing competitiveness for tomorrow's challenges, recognizing its pivotal role in sculpting a resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape.
Step into the realm of Elmia Lantbruk from October 16th to 18th, 2024, where we don't just sow seeds but ideas, fostering a landscape where sustainability intertwines seamlessly with profitability and growth. Delve into the pressing issues of our time, from climate-conscious production methods to adaptive strategies for shifting climates, and uncover the opportunities latent within extended growing seasons.
With over 300 exhibitors, Elmia cultivates a diverse tapestry of solutions spanning machinery, crop cultivation, livestock, and farm management, propelling Swedish agriculture towards new frontiers of innovation and efficiency.
Embracing visitors from every corner of Sweden, Elmia serves as a nexus for visionaries and stakeholders alike, where farmers, industry titans, policymakers, and enthusiasts converge to shape the trajectory of agriculture. Nestled strategically within reach of 70% of the country's farmers, Elmia beckons as a bastion of inspiration and progress, where the future of farming unfolds in real-time.