SA sights on exports

FOCUS: COUNTRY ADDRESSING CHINESE MARKET ACCESS REQUIREMENTS

- Brian Sokutu

South Africa is working towards addressing China's specific market access requirements to maximise local exports, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said yesterday.

The total bilateral trade between China and South Africa increased from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion last year.

Speaking at the South Africa-China Economic Trade Association (Saceta) business gathering in Sandton, to launch the 2024 corporate social responsibility report of Chinese-funded enterprises in SA, Mashatile said the local economy should be geared towards exporting manufactured goods to China instead of raw materials.

"Improving trade connections between South Africa and China benefits both countries directly and has a positive ripple effect throughout the region."

"Increased trade creates jobs, stimulates economic growth and improves living standards for the people of both countries."