Deputy President highlights opportunities in agriculture, critical minerals and manufacturing as South Africa seeks deeper economic ties with China
South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in China this week to participate in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), where he has called for stronger trade and investment ties between the two countries.
The fourth edition of the expo is taking place in Beijing from June 22 to 26 under the theme, “Connecting the World for a Shared Future.” Addressing delegates at the event, Mashatile highlighted South Africa’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation with China and encouraged Chinese companies to increase their investments in the country.
His remarks come amid the implementation of the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Prosperity (CADEPA), signed earlier this year. The agreement, which came into full effect on May 1, provides qualifying South African exports with duty-free access to the Chinese market, creating new opportunities for trade and economic growth.
Mashatile said there is significant potential for South Africa and China to strengthen collaboration across three strategic areas: agriculture and food systems, critical minerals and the green economy, and advanced manufacturing, logistics and automotive value chains.
“As we shape the future of global supply chains, we must ensure that our partnerships remain inclusive and sustainable. Economic cooperation should contribute to job creation, skills development, industrial growth, environmental sustainability, and deliver tangible benefits for our people,” Mashatile said.
“South Africa reaffirms its commitment to strengthening economic cooperation with China. We are determined to position our country as both a preferred destination for investment and a reliable source of value within global supply chains.”
The deputy president’s participation in the expo underscores South Africa’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment and expand market access for local products. As global supply chains continue to evolve, stronger cooperation with China could play a key role in advancing South Africa’s industrialisation agenda, supporting value-added production and unlocking new opportunities in strategic sectors such as mining, manufacturing and green energy.