Africa and India today stand on the threshold of a new awakening and consciousness about each other. IIFT has successfully undertaken several projects on Africa from governmental and non-governmental agencies and conducted national and international seminars, conference and workshops. It also encourages visiting fellows to come and share their academic expertise with the students and faculty members. The main purpose of research and academic interactions is to enhance mutual understanding, cooperation and friendship between the peoples of India and Africa.

To facilitate the development of research, IIFT is continuously engaged in discussion with various academic organizations and corporate sector to develop proposals on economic and trade issues of African countries.