Hong Kong’s strategic location, and its ease of doing business regulations, have the potential to springboard South African fresh produce and services into the entire South East Asia regional market.
This is from the South African Consul-General in Hong Kong, Madoda Ntshinga, speaking during from the South African National Pavilion at the Fruit Logistica Asia Trade Show, which concluded in Hong Kong today (Friday).
Fruit Logistica Asia is an annual trade show that focuses on the fresh, unprocessed fruit and vegetables produce sector and the related value chain. The trade show also offers the opportunity to establish new business contacts as it brings together key players from all over the world.
According to Ntshinga, more than 90% of Hong Kong relies on imports. “In broad terms, Hong Kong is an important market as it serves as a transit route for trade in this region. It is amongst the biggest logistical hubs in this region and is also the financial hub where the head offices of most banking institutions are located. This magnifies Hong Kong’s importance in terms of trade facilitation,” he said.
The ambassador called on South African companies to identify niche markets that they could focus on and establish relations with local agents who will import the goods and distribute them in the Hong Kong market.
“In terms of the business culture, it is very easy to deal with this market, especially when you link up your engagements with the consulate,” Ntshinga pointed out, highlighting that Hong Kong had “very influential chambers that cover all the sectors ranging from mining, food and vegetables”.
“They are prepared to help us sell our goods to the local market and, secondly, government entities like the Hong Kong Trade and Development Council are very useful in helping us expose our exporters to this market,” he commented.
The participation of the South African companies at Fruit Logistica forms part of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Export Promotion Strategy that targets high-growth export markets.
