SA commits to growing Asian exports

The relationship between South Africa and China has come a long way in 13 years, but much more can be expected as China becomes one of the world’s most powerful players. With the value of trade between the two countries in the region of R120 billion, South Africa has openly declared its commitment to China and has invited Chinese companies to open up shop in South Africa. There’s also a strong commitment to increase exports to the East. According to Nitesh Dullabh, director and general manager: Africa for the Beijing Axis, exports, which are in the range of R50 billion, will be the focus as we move into 2011. “We must increase this figure.” He said we could also expect to see more Chinese companies entering the South African and sub- Saharan market. “Currently there are more than 800 state-owned Chinese firms active in Africa.”