President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for stronger economic cooperation and expanded trade between South Africa and Brazil, describing the partnership between the two countries as vital for advancing inclusive growth and development across the Global South.
Speaking at the Brazil–South Africa Business Forum in Brasília during his State Visit, Ramaphosa emphasised that both nations share similar economic ambitions and face comparable challenges, including inequality and the need for sustained economic expansion. The President addressed the forum alongside Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and business leaders from both countries.
Ramaphosa said the visit created a valuable opportunity to deepen economic ties and rebalance trade relations by expanding and diversifying South African exports to Brazil.
“This visit presents us with an opportunity to re-imagine a world of opportunities anchored by our shared values and vision. As Team South Africa, we are keen to rebalance our trade by growing and diversifying South African exports to Brazil,” Ramaphosa said on Monday.
Expanding trade and industrial cooperation
The President highlighted the importance of improving market access through the Preferential Trade Agreement between the Southern African Customs Union and MERCOSUR, explaining that expanding the agreement’s product coverage could significantly increase trade flows between the regions.
Ramaphosa pointed to several sectors with strong potential for industrial collaboration between South Africa and Brazil. These include biofuels, defence, agro-processing, aerospace, energy, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing and the automotive industry.
According to the President, cooperation in these sectors should prioritise technology transfer and skills development, helping both economies strengthen their industrial bases while creating sustainable employment opportunities.
The growing presence of South African companies in Brazil also reflects the expanding economic relationship. Companies operating in the Brazilian market include Sasol, MTN Group, Naspers, First National Bank, Aspen Pharmacare, Grindrod, Standard Bank and AngloGold Ashanti.
Brazilian businesses have also established operations in South Africa. Major firms such as Petrobras, Embraer and Marcopolo are contributing to industrial activity and investment in the country.
Ramaphosa welcomed the establishment of an aviation training academy by Embraer at O. R. Tambo International Airport, saying the initiative would help develop critical aerospace skills and strengthen South Africa’s role in global aviation value chains.
He also noted that Marcopolo had invested in automotive manufacturing in Gauteng, while industrial engineering company WEG S.A. had established a manufacturing and distribution presence supporting South Africa’s mining, energy and water sectors.
“The foundation for greater trade and investment is in place.”
Ramaphosa added that South Africa aims to position itself as Brazil’s gateway into African markets through the African Continental Free Trade Area, while Brazil could serve as South Africa’s gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean.
He further highlighted South Africa’s advanced financial system, modern ports and skilled workforce as key advantages that make the country an attractive investment destination.
The President also encouraged Brazilian investors to participate in the South Africa Investment Conference, scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on March 31.
“The door to South Africa is open, and the time to invest and grow together is now,” he said.