Yasmin Bilal
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded a Working Visit to the People’s Republic of China aimed at strengthening trade, investment and industrial cooperation with South Africa.
The visit was undertaken at the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). It focused on expanding market access, improving business cooperation and deepening bilateral economic ties.
Mashatile attended the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), where he stressed the need for stronger and more resilient global supply chains. He said this was vital in a changing global economy.
He also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to its strategic partnership with China.
“South Africa is an attractive investment destination, supported by sophisticated industrial capabilities, a world-class financial sector, and well-established logistics infrastructure. We remain committed to reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, accelerating infrastructure development, and strengthening industrial competitiveness,” he said.
He said global cooperation must adapt to economic shifts. He added that supply chains must remain sustainable and inclusive.
The Deputy President held bilateral talks with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. The two leaders reaffirmed strong relations between the two countries. They also discussed trade, investment and industrial development.
Mashatile engaged several Chinese companies, including China Communications Construction Company, Geely, Chery, Green Minerals and Metals, Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering & Technology and SANY Group.
Discussions focused on infrastructure development, automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, mineral beneficiation, healthcare and environmental management.
He encouraged the companies to invest in South Africa. He also invited them to participate in the next South Africa Investment Conference.
“South Africa values institutions that create practical mechanisms for expanding trade, attracting investment, and facilitating business partnerships between our two Republics,” he said.
He also attended a networking session at the South African Embassy in Beijing. The session brought together government and business stakeholders to promote investment opportunities.
On the second leg of the visit, Mashatile travelled to Shenzhen in Guangdong Province. He held further meetings on trade and economic cooperation with government and business leaders.
He met Shenzhen municipal officials, including CPC Shenzhen Party Secretary Jin Lei. He also engaged companies in the technology, health and environmental sectors.
He later visited Dongguan, where he toured the South Africa Commodity China Exhibition and Trade Centre, which promotes import and export cooperation.
Mashatile was accompanied by Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zuko Godlimpi and senior officials.