Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies arrived in China to officially open the South African Expos 2012, his department said on Sunday.
Davies with Chinese counterpart Cheng Deming, will open the expo which is aimed at expanding the exporting of products into China on Monday. “These particular expos are special in that we chose a number of companies that have the ten value-added products identified in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement (CSPA) signed by both countries in August 2010, prioritising the improvement of the structure of trade between the two countries,” said Davies in a statement.
A total of 68 South African companies from different sectors were taking part in the exhibitions.
Davies advised the companies to use the opportunity to represent South Africa in a good light.
“There is a need to establish capacity for South African companies to supply a larger market in China especially in the agro-processing and space aviation sectors that have prospects in Asia,” said Davies.
Davies was also expected to witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the department and the International Brand Management Centre. This was expected to enhance the trade relationship between China and South Africa. - Sapa