The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), held from November 5 to 10, 2024, in Shanghai, once again demonstrated China’s commitment to opening its markets and fostering global trade. The event attracted over 3,000 exhibitors from 150 countries, drawing attention to innovative products and services across a variety of industries. Among the distinguished participants, South African businesses emerged as a highlight, leveraging the Expo to deepen ties with China, their largest trading partner.
The South African delegation, comprising of 35 companies took part in the expo, supported by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), featured a diverse range of entrepreneurs and companies from key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, technology, and renewable energy. With China’s growing demand for high-quality imports and sustainable solutions, South African exhibitors seized the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and establish strategic partnerships.
South Africa's Pavilion: A Celebration of Diversity and Quality
South Africa's national pavilion, prominently located in the Expo's "Food and Agricultural Products" and "Trade in Services" halls, attracted thousands of visitors over the course of the event. The pavilion was designed to emphasise the nation's unique resources, innovative technologies, and commitment to sustainability, and was lauded for its vibrant display and interactive exhibits.
South Africa's agricultural sector took centre stage at the pavilion, with several business leaders making their mark. Khozeni Farming Operations, a Mpumalanga-based enterprise, presented avocados and macadamias. Founder Robert Mafuna emphasised the significance of the recent phytosanitary agreement enabling South Africa’s avocado exports to China, which aligns with China's increased consumption of fresh produce. The enterprise recently partnered with Westfalia Fruits to provide the first export of SA avocados for a test run to the Chinese market. Approved South African avocado growers can now export their produce to China, following confirmation from Chinese authorities at the end of July 2024. In August of 2023, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) stipulating the phytosanitary requirements South African avocado producers need to meet to export to China.
Miante Manufacturing, specialising in value-added nut products, aimed to introduce unique African flavours to Chinese consumers. Company head Wendy Mpendulo highlighted the expo as an opportunity to secure partnerships and distribution channels in Asia. Additionally, other participants from the wine industry, such as La RicMal Wines, showcased premium South African wines. With China's burgeoning appreciation for fine wines, these exhibitors explored new markets for South African viticulture.
South Africa's participation extended beyond traditional industries, with a strong showing from its tech, innovation and construction sectors. Abednico Mkhari, founder and director of NTGR Engineering, an award-winning multidisciplinary engineering company in South Africa, signed a memorandum of understanding for a joint venture with a major Chinese company for the construction of a road in Tanzania.
Networking Platform
The CIIE provided a platform for South African businesses to network with Chinese counterparts and government representatives. South Africa’s Consulate General to Shanghai, Ms Phuti Tsipa emphasised the importance for the country to continue to invest in efforts to ensure that more value added products are exported to global markets. She says this will assist with re-industrialisation and lead to the growth that is needed. She was speaking at the official opening of the South African Pavilion.
During the Expo, South African businesses signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Chinese companies. Notable agreements included partnerships in green energy, agricultural exports, and technology transfer. The CIIE reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its trade relationship with China while positioning itself as a gateway to the African market. South African businesses not only showcased their products but also contributed to discussions on sustainability, innovation, and global trade.
The DTIC announced plans to build on the Expo’s momentum, with initiatives to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in entering the Chinese market. As the 7th CIIE concluded, South African companies returned home with promising leads and newfound collaborations, further solidifying their role on the global stage. For South Africa, the event was not only an opportunity to strengthen ties with China but also a testament to the nation’s capacity to compete and succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.