South Africa is intensifying efforts to deepen trade and investment relations with China, with a renewed focus on boosting exports, attracting investment, and driving job creation.
Speaking at the South Africa- China Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum in Cape Town, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Alexandra Abrahams highlighted the growing importance of bilateral cooperation in supporting economic growth.
Focus on Value-Added Trade and Investment
Abrahams emphasised that stronger collaboration between the two countries presents an opportunity to expand value-added exports and strengthen South Africa’s industrial base. This aligns with the priorities of the Government of National Unity, which aims to stimulate economic growth and create jobs through strategic international partnerships.
A key development in this regard is ongoing negotiations to secure duty-free access for South African exports to China. These discussions follow the recent signing of the Framework Agreement under the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA), which is expected to usher in a new phase of economic cooperation.
“The investment that we seek in infrastructure, manufacturing, renewable energy and mineral-beneficiation projects will be characterised by more efficient approvals, rule certainty and better policy support for projects by both countries,” she said.
Abrahams added that the agreement is expected to gradually shift trade patterns away from a reliance on raw mineral exports toward more value-added products across multiple sectors.
“We wish to conclude the negotiations very soon as this will provide duty-free access for South African exports and encourage more Chinese investment into South Africa. Once this is done and the necessary customs processes are finalised, duty-free access to China will become a practical reality.”
She noted that the department has already identified around 100 value-added products that could be competitively exported to China, with some progress already made in expanding market access for products such as dairy and greasy wool.
The forum follows the 9th Bi-National Commission (BNC), led by South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile and co-chaired by China’s Vice-President Han Zheng.
Abrahams said platforms like the Economic and Trade Forum play a critical role in connecting policymakers, investors, and businesses, helping to translate policy into tangible investment opportunities.
“Forums such as these are important because they connect decision-makers, businesses and investors in a way that turns policy alignment into practical outcomes. That is how we build trust, unlock investment, support innovation and translate international cooperation into shared prosperity,” she said.