SA and China to Host Trade and Investment Promotion Conference: A New Chapter in Bilateral Cooperation
From 23 to 25 September 2025, South Africa will host a major Trade and Investment Promotion Conference with China at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. The event is being organized by the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), and will bring together high-level business leaders and government officials from both countries.
Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi is slated to deliver the keynote address, focusing on how to build strategic partnerships, expand bilateral trade, and unlock investment opportunities across key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and renewable energy.
China will send a delegation of about 400 leading enterprises, which will exhibit their products, and there will also be sessions for business-to-business engagement, policy discussions, and networking.
Why It Matters
South Africa has held a number of forums and expos with China in recent years to deepen economic cooperation.
For example: In CAETE (China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo) in Changsha in June 2025, South Africa was the Guest of Honour. It used the platform to showcase several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in agro-processing, consumer goods, textiles and other sectors.
Another issue that has driven these types of events is the effort to make the Balance of Payments Accounts favourable for both countries. Also, both countries have in recent months emphasised trade facilitation: reducing barriers, improving regulatory clarity, and improving transport, customs, and logistical links. They have also discussed balancing trade so that South Africa gains more value via export diversification and local beneficiation.
These build-ups show a pattern: South Africa and China are not just doing big annual summits but are steadily planning concrete events where business leaders, government, and investors meet face-to-face. The upcoming Conference is a continuation of that trend.
BENEFITS OF THE CONFERENCE TO BOTH COUNTRIES
For South Africa
Export Growth & Industry Diversification
South African businesses will get exposure to hundreds of Chinese firms; this offers opportunities to enter Chinese markets, form joint ventures, or attract investment for manufacturing, agriculture, green energy, and technology. This can help diversify beyond mining and raw materials.
Job Creation
Investment in manufacturing plants, renewable energy, transport or tech sectors will likely create jobs. Skills transfer is expected via partnerships, joint ventures, technology sharing, and training programmes.
Trade Balance Improvement
By strengthening export capacity (including value-added exports) and improving trade facilitation, South Africa has the chance to work on its Balance of Payments account both in the nominal and capital accounts.
Investment & Infrastructure
Chinese firms often bring capital, experience, and infrastructure to projects. South Africa could benefit from upgraded supply chains, better transport, manufacturing zones, and green energy infrastructure.
For China
Market Access & Growth
China can access a large and diverse market in South Africa for its manufactured goods, technology, and green energy products. Deepening trade relationships helps Chinese firms expand their footprint in Africa.
Stable Supply Chains
With South Africa’s mineral industries, agriculture, and natural resources, China secures sources for raw materials needed for its industries.
Strategic Partnerships & Influence
Business relationships and investment help build diplomatic goodwill and strengthen China’s role as a partner in Africa. Events like this help to reinforce its narrative of cooperation, development and mutual benefit.
Balanced Production & Localisation
As China helps local industries or invests in manufacturing in South Africa, it may also reduce logistical costs, build local supply partners, and encourage more efficient regional production.
Conclusion
The South Africa-China Trade and Investment Promotion Conference marks an important moment in the evolving relationship between the two countries. It comes at a time when there is a need to work on the Balance of Payments accounts. If well executed, the gathering could pave the way for more diversified exports from South Africa, greater investment, job creation, and a more balanced, sustainable partnership. For China, the event offers deeper market access and strategic influence. It is a chance for both nations to reset expectations and build an economic relationship that works for industry, workers, and communities on both sides.