By Levy Masiteng
Deputy President Paulus Mashatile has arrived in China for a strategic Working Visit aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and economic cooperation between South Africa and China, according to the Deputy President’s Office.
The visit, which started on Monday and ends on July 18, 2025, presents a significant opportunity to advance the South Africa-China All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era.
“I am in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, at the invitation of Mr. Ren Hongbin, Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), for a strategic Working Visit,” said Mashatile.
“As part of the Working Visit, I will participate in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE). CISCE is the world’s first national-level expo dedicated to global supply chains, hosted under the the auspices of the Chinese central government and organised by the CCPIT.”
During this visit, Mashatile will participate in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) and officially launch the South African National Pavilion.
CISCE, hosted by the CCPIT under the auspices of the Chinese central government, is the world’s first national-level expo dedicated to global supply chains.
The Presidency highlighted Mashatile’s role in strengthening South Africa’s position as a gateway to Sub-Saharan Africa for trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.
Key engagements during the visit include bilateral meetings with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and discussions with major Chinese institutions such as China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), Industrial and Commercial Bank of China in partnership with Standard Bank, and SINOMA International Engineering Company Ltd.
Mashatile will also meet with Beijing Automotive International Corporation (BAIC) and participate in the South Africa-China Investment Forum, a vital platform for promoting bilateral trade and investment cooperation.
Accompanying Mashatile is a delegation of ministers, including Parks Tau (Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition), Patricia de Lille (Minister of Tourism), and John Steenhuisen (Minister of Agriculture).
“This visit underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen economic ties and explore new opportunities for cooperation,” emphasised the Presidency.
INSIDE POLITICS