Parks Tau’s ‘successful’ visit to India strengthens trade ties

TRADE, Industry, and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, is nearing the conclusion of a “highly productive” work visit to India. The trip has reportedly been instrumental in bolstering economic relations and identifying new market opportunities between India and South Africa.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

At the invitation of the Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, Tau’s delegation has engaged in a series of high-level discussions with both government officials and prominent Indian businesses, while also Playing akey role in the 20th India-Africa Conclave.

The visit, spanning from August 25 to 29, comes at a critical juncture for South Africas economy, which is grappling with a 30% US tariff on its exports and existing domestic protectionist measures.

Tau has been actively exploring alternative trade partners to mitigate the tariff impacts, with India emerging as a crucial strategic ally. Speaking to the publication yesterday, High Commissioner of South Africa to India, Professor Anil Sookla, provided insights into the delegation’s itinerary and the positive outcomes achieved.

“Minister Parks Tau arrived in India on Sunday evening and went to Mumbai on Monday, where there was a round-table discussion with Indian companies that are already in South Africa, like Tata and Mahindra, as part of his mandate to increase trade interests between the two countries,” Sooklal said.