Austria spotlights Nigeria as key market for authentic Austrian lace

Austria spotlights Nigeria as key market for authentic Austrian lace

The Austrian Embassy in Nigeria recently highlighted Nigeria as a key market for authentic Austrian lace, emphasizing the role of trade and cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations. This was showcased at the 2026 Austrian Lace Appreciation Event (ALAE) held in Lagos, which also included an award ceremony celebrating Nigeria’s top sellers of Austrian lace. Organised by the commercial section of the Austrian Embassy on behalf of the Association of Austrian Lace Manufacturers in Vorarlberg, Austria, the event recognized over 60 leading Nigerian lace sellers for their long-standing partnerships with Austrian manufacturers, underlining Nigeria’s significance as a major export destination.

A special fashion show featured fabrics from five Austrian manufacturers—Riedmann, Oscar, HOH, Scheffknecht, and Amann—demonstrating the fusion of Austrian craftsmanship with Nigerian fashion creativity. Barbara Lehninger, Commercial Counsellor at the embassy, praised Nigerian sellers for their trust and partnerships with Austrian companies, describing them as an exemplary model of how business relationships can generate both cultural and economic value. She highlighted Nigeria’s strong demand for Austrian lace and its integration into fashion and ceremonial wear.

Folashade Ambrose, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, commended the Austrian mission for organizing ALAE, noting that it celebrated excellence, creativity, and durable commercial collaboration. She emphasized the role of the fashion industry in the creative economy, supporting thousands of SMEs, designers, retailers, and artisans. Ambrose also praised Austrian lace for its durability and brand reputation, attributing its enduring demand to consistency, excellence, and trusted partnerships with local distributors.

Jermaine Sanwoolu-Olu, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs, encouraged Nigerians to leverage opportunities in the textile and fashion value chain, noting its potential to generate wealth and expand local production capacity. Overall, the event reinforced the importance of bilateral trade, creative industry growth, and cultural exchange between Austria and Nigeria.