South Africa is prioritising diversification of trade and investment partnerships, with Asia as a key region.
Delivering opening remarks at the bilateral meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi this week, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, reflected on the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
“This year marks 116 years of relations between South Africa and Japan. Over this period, our cooperation has expanded significantly across a wide range of sectors.
“We see strong potential for expanding access for South African agro-processing and agricultural products to the Japanese and broader Asian markets.”
Japan remains a significant investor in the South African economy. Lamola welcomed Toyota’s recent R10.4 billion investment pledge at the 6th South African Investment Conference, which supports the transition to new energy vehicles.
He also expressed optimism about new cooperation in defence equipment following successful engagements between South African and Japanese companies in September 2025.
Speaking during a media briefing following the talks, Lamola detailed discussions on the escalating situation in the Middle East and its effects on global energy markets.
“We did share with Japan the impact of the war on the South African economy, including on energy, fertiliser and other products.”
He said both countries were experiencing rising fuel prices due to the conflict, with Japan additionally facing challenges of spiralling gas and plastic prices.
Lamola said South Africa’s crude oil imports were primarily sourced from the African continent, including Nigeria and Angola, but refined oil imports, which form a major part of the country’s retail fuel products, were reliant on Middle East sea routes.
He said discussions had emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation. Both sides agreed on the need for negotiations, flexibility, tolerance, and confidence-building measures among Iran, Israel, and the US to achieve a lasting solution in the Middle East.
