Exporter to US rejects talk of downturn

FORGET THE threat of an economic downturn in the US affecting South African exports to that country. On the contrary, if South African manufacturers market themselves correctly, this country as a whole won't be able to meet US demands. This encouraging comment comes from Treve Hendry, chief executive of industrial group Argent, who is adamant there should be no fears of setbacks in exports to the US as a result of the September 11 terror attacks and a predicted downturn in that nation's economy. Argent's results for the half-year to September showed a 37% jump in turnover, and order books are full for the next two years, he says. With South Africa a minor player in the business of exports to the US, problems in that country won't have any noticeable impact on South African business flow. Argent's big export achievement to date has been the supply of bug shields to the US. These are made of stainless steel and are attached to the bonnets of vehicles to eliminate the number of insects hitting the windscreen. This adds value to SA stainless steel before it is exported, says Hendry, who is also pursuing the niche markets Argent has developed in bull bars and side steps which are already a good seller in Europe and Brazil.