Local trade facility gets global muscle

THE ABSA International Trade Bureau (AITB) has, through one of its subsidiaries, become an affiliate of the World Trade Centre family following the signing of an agreement between the AITB and World Trade Centre Johannesburg. “It’s a significant milestone for us because we are now part of a global network of international trade centres and no longer operating as a standalone entity on the southern tip of Africa,” says sales director Anton Pispeki, The R 25-million export promotion facility at OR Tambo International Airport (Ortia) was launched in February this year and showcases 122 South African exporting companies representing the country’s 14 major industry sectors. Spanning 2 200m², the centre is located within 80m of the exits of international arrivals terminals one and two at Ortia on the international pick up parking zone. The facility has hosted 15 trade delegations this year and Pispeki points out that these were buying and selling missions. South Africa’s role as the gateway to the continent is clearly apparent, says Pispeki, with most companies looking for markets throughout Southern Africa, with its huge and untapped potential. The facility is open daily from 07:00-21:00 with 50 to100 visitors moving through every day. A fortnightly presentation is provided focusing on particular countries, their opportunities and challenges.