KZN targets Africa for trade and investment opportunities

Select emerging markets have been identified as priority areas in 2012/13 for Trade & Investment KwaZulu Natal (TIKZN) which has worked closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) to develop a strategy for Africa. “In addition to the traditional markets, we have identified several emerging market countries,” Neville Matjie, general manager: export promotion for TIKZN told FTW at a business breakfast in Gauteng last week. “These include Brazil, India and China as well as Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana and Angola from the SADC region, Kenya and Tanzania from the EAC and Comesa region and Ghana and Nigeria (Ecowas).” According to Matje, Africa saw a whopping 33.5% growth in imports in January to May 2012, compared to the same period last year and a 21% growth in exports. “I am optimistic that we will see even more growth of our African markets in terms of trade reach,” he said. The provincial body is therefore looking to its neighbours, exploring numerous avenues, including manufacturing of sustainable niche products which can be successfully exported.” Economic counsellor for the dti, Sarah Dien, added that with Europe in decline, of the 14 emerging country economies, South Africa was also fast becoming an important global player. She says the African strategy includes export promotion, various financial incentives for exports and assisting companies to become export-ready and legally compliant – all of which TIKZN facilitates on behalf of the companies with which it deals. CAPTION Forging stronger ties in Gauteng… Neville Matjie with TIKZN’s dedicated Gauteng office manager, Donnee Kruger.