What Ramaphosa’s visit to Ireland means for South Africa’s economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Dublin, Ireland, on Wednesday, for an Official Visit aimed at advancing trade relations between South Africa and Ireland. President Ramaphosa is expected to hold official talks with President Michael D. Higgins and Prime Minister Micheál Martin.

The president's spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that this discussion will focus on strengthening cooperation in science and innovation, higher education and skills development, as well as trade and investment.

“This visit seeks to elevate bilateral cooperation to a strategic partnership, creating new opportunities for enhanced collaboration and mutual economic growth.

It also reaffirms the strong historical bond between South Africa and Ireland founded on shared values and Ireland’s principled support for South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle,” said Magwenya.

In addition to bilateral matters, the leaders will discuss global and regional geopolitics and explore avenues for deeper bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

“Bilateral trade between South Africa and Ireland grew by 12% to $638 million in 2024 from $567 million in 2023. 

South Africa increased its exports to Ireland by 40.4%, from $119 million in 2023 to $168 million in 2024.

 South Africa’s imports from Ireland also grew by 5%, from $448 million in 2023 to $470 million in 2024,” said Magwenya.

During his visit, Ramaphosa is also expected to engage with leading Irish companies to promote investment and collaboration.

IOL NEWS