The South African International Trade Exhibition 2024 (SAITEX) held in Johannesburg saw a significant increase in participation from Chinese companies, marking a boost for the event.
The heightened interest followed commitments made at last year's BRICS summit, where leaders vowed to strengthen trade relations and bilateral ties between China and South Africa.
SAITEX, one of Africa's largest and most influential trade exhibitions, took place from June 11 to 13. Over the last 30 years, it has played a pivotal role in facilitating connections between African businesses and international companies.
"We've grown the event tremendously this year. So we are expanding on our pavilions so we have got Chinese pavilions, we've got pavilions from Indonesia, from Brazil, from Pakistan. So we've really grown the pavilion sector of the exhibition as well as a lot of other international, but also supporting local companies within South Africa," said Margaret Peters, Event Director at DMG Events.
Since returning to the show in 2023 after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, increased interest from China has been a boost.
"It's our first time in South Africa. I hope we will be able to bring Chinese agricultural products and food into the South African market," said Li Hao, CEO of Jinxiang Jinhaoyuan Agriculture Company.
"We do business with South Africa for more than 10 years. I love South Africa, also the people here. We have a lot of partners here. So today is a chance for the exhibition. We also came to visit our partners. So this is a very good chance for us to get more business," said Cui Xiaoling, China Bridge Group International Cargo Service manager.
More companies are increasingly looking towards the continent following a revitalization of relations between China and South Africa during last year's BRICS Summit.
"We want to cooperate with South Africa. So I think more and more Chinese companies will come to South Africa and cooperate with the local market customers," said Bian Ruonan, manager of Laiwu Taifeng.
There was something for everyone as buyers scoured the exhibition searching for their ideal products.
"I'm here to source for suppliers. I'm in the school food environment. We promote healthy eating for schoolchildren. I've seen others from Botswana as well. They kind of do something that's the same as us, providing dehydrated packs like school options. But China thus far has been the best option," said Labani Mgimeti, a purchasing manager for school lunch meals.
Trade shows like SAITEX provide businesses with the opportunity to connect on a more personal level as African companies and those from abroad seek new markets.
Record Chinese participation at SAITEX 2024 reflects strengthening trade ties
