New initiative launched to promote export potential of SMEs

ALAN PEAT
THE CITY of Johannesburg – in the form of the city’s economic development unit (CEDU) – has plans to develop export potential amongst small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in its municipal area. It has formed a two-year partnership with the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), with the chamber acting as the scheme’s eyes, ears and voice for information gathering and training. As part of this it will have the support of Trade Point Johannesburg – one of 100 Trade Points in 90 countries initiated in 1992 by the United Nations (UN), under the guidance of the World Trade Point Federation (WTPF). These are business units designed to promote the participation of SMEs in international trade - especially in developing countries. “The support provided by the chamber and Trade Point will include the gathering of market intelligence, the facilitation of product and export development, the provision of trade-related training, on-going mentoring, and networking opportunities, and support in the management of the trade process,” said JCCI CEO Keith Brebnor.