By Simon Nare
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has committed the South African government to strengthening global supply chains and fostering market resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Delivering the keynote address at the China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, Mashatile said supply chains were facing unprecedented challenges from natural disasters to political upheaval.
South Africa was focusing on growing e-commerce and advancing technology in the face of global challenges, the deputy president said.
“Our business communities have been resilient and adapting through strategies like diversifying suppliers, holding more inventory and investing in digital transformation.
“As government, we have also adopted policies and strategies that are conducive for business to strive. We understand the importance of building robust supply chains that can withstand disruptions and ensure the efficient flow of goods and services,” he said.
Mashatile said businesses from South Africa and China must seize the opportunity to collaborate further and build supply chains that were not only efficient and cost-effective, but also sustainable and resilient.
He added that as China was positioning itself to expand its trade with the African continent, efforts to create and solidify supply chains were crucial.
“South Africa’s export portfolio to China comprises mainly basic commodities. While the trade volumes confirm South Africa’s natural endowment, the heavy slant towards mineral-based exports belies our advanced infrastructure, our diversified industrial base and our leading service sectors.
“Our diverse economy and strategic location make us a natural gateway for trade and investment, connecting Africa to the rest of the world,” he said.
Mashatile said the expo was instrumental in linking up Chinese buyers and importers with South African producers.
He mentioned listing South African products on e-commerce platforms like Alibaba as important in balancing trade between South Africa and China.
The government was also looking at placing quality South African products in various free trade zones throughout China, Mashatile said.
Furthermore, South Africa’s strong industrial base, advanced financial sector and strategic location meant it was well positioned to contribute to the implementation of free trade agreements, particularly AfCFTA.
While opening the South African National Pavilion, Mashatile said South Africa and China maintained a strong and growing economic relationship.
He said China was South Africa’s largest trading partner, both globally and within Africa, while South Africa was a key partner for China on the continent.
“Our participation in forums such as BRICS and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) further strengthens this relationship. South Africa acknowledges that strengthening partnerships with China in various forms is crucial for mutual benefit and global stability.
“South Africa plans to establish a more permanent presence in China through a permanent exhibition, ensuring that our offerings remain accessible even when our producers, manufacturers, and distributors are not physically present in the country,” he said.
The deputy president said through the pavilion, the South African government was looking forward to fostering strong collaborations, forging new partnerships and exploring opportunities for growth and mutual prosperity.
“The China International Supply Chain Expo provides us with a platform to showcase our unique offerings, engage with industry leaders and further enhance our presence in the global marketplace,” he said.
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