South Africa seeks to strengthen trade relations with China through supply chain expo

JOHANNESBURG -- South Africa aims to strengthen its relations with China as a high-level delegation is set to attend the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), said the presidency on Sunday.

The presidency said Deputy President Paul Mashatile, accompanied by government officials, will attend the CISCE, scheduled to take place in Beijing from July 16 to 20.

"This high-level participation by the deputy president and the South African delegation is a pivotal opportunity to advance the South Africa-China all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era. It also reinforces South Africa's position as a gateway to sub-Saharan Africa for trade, investment, and industrial cooperation," said the presidency in a statement.

During the event, South Africa will seek to promote strategic sectors such as renewable energy, logistics, pharmaceuticals, mineral beneficiation, and the digital economy, according to the statement.

The presidency said the visit will focus on "showcasing a robust pipeline of investable projects to attract targeted Chinese investment, particularly into special economic zones and critical infrastructure, and enhancing bilateral collaboration on clean technologies, digital skills development, and industrial standards."

The visit will also aim to enhance mutually beneficial economic cooperation and trade through some bilateral programs, said the presidency.