Boosting export capacity is critical if Gauteng wants to create more employment and grow its economy.It is with this in mind that the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) is focusing on assisting emerging exporters and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to increase their participation in economic activities.“The JCCI has always been actively involved in promoting international trade,” says Bernadette Zeiler, JCCI CEO. “Working with our international partners, we have identified key clusters where we can provide training to small emerging expor ters.”Zeiler tells Freight News that Gauteng is the epicentre of growth, South Africa’s economic engine and an important launch pad for local and international business into Africa. “The development and support of SMEs is critical for economic recovery and job creation, especially in Gauteng,” says Zeiler.SMEs are key drivers of job creation, which is why it is essential to unlock value chains for the benefit of small businesses – critical not only for the growth of the Gauteng economy, but also for recovering from the global Covid-19 pandemic.“Exports remain an important drive for the Chamber. Our export incubation programme, funded by the German government, continues to play a critical role in training our exporters,” she says. “Our incubator model is also different from many others out there. We have a set of criteria for companies to join the programme, but once part of the process we not only do the training but also offer mentorship to these exporters, assisting them in identifying suitable markets for their products and then accessing those markets through our connections with other chambers all around the world.”The success of the programme, says Zeiler, is not based on the training aspect but rather the outcomes. “We consider it only a success once an SME has secured contracts and is selling products abroad.”The Chamber also believes in the value of empowering women and increasing their participation in the economy. “Our Women in Business Desk, a programme also in partnership with the German government through its development agency GIZ, runs a similar model to the incubator. The women on the programme meet on a regular basis where they address some of the issues and challenges that they face in business.”According to Zeiler, the goal of these programmes is not just about increasing the number of Gauteng exporters, but also for people to learn from each other, share challenges and solutions, as well as inspire. “It is important that we ensure our businesses are sustainable – and by working together we stand a far better chance of achieving that than working in silos.”She says an important sector that has been identified is that of the youth. “We are in the process of launching a youth desk that will offer young people the same kind of model as the other two programmes, including training and mentorship. We are also planning on including franchise opportunities as part of this programme, and are currently in discussions with some renowned stakeholders who will partner with us. It is about giving the youth tangible opportunities to start a business and generate an income.”
