DTI invites SA companies to apply for inclusion in China trade expo

13th June 2014 By: Natalie Greve - Creamer Media Contributing Editor Online

DTI invites SA companies to apply for inclusion in China trade expo

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has extended an invitation to South African companies to apply for participation at the South African Exhibition and Investment seminars scheduled to take place in China from October 20 to 31.

To qualify for inclusion, businesses would need to have been in business for at least three years, possess a proven business record and be competitive in the South African market.

The companies should also be export-ready, have previous export experience and the capacity to “timeously” supply any export orders arising out of the visit.

Companies that wanted to be part of these events, which would take place in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Shanghai and Beijing, would be required to apply to the DTI before June 27, after which the selected firms would be assisted through the department’s Export Marketing and Investment Assistance programme.

Trade and Industry Minister Dr Rob Davies said the yearly South African events in China were aimed at promoting trade between the two countries as well as embedding bilateral diplomatic ties.

He said these events would provide South African companies with an opportunity to explore the market in China and gain inroads into the larger Asia region.

“Sectors that are targeted for these events include agroprocessing, chemicals, plastics, steel, aluminium, automotive, electrotechnical, manufactured products, capital equipment, paper and pulp, energy and renewable energy, infrastructure, information and communications technology, transport, mining and minerals beneficiation,” Davies indicated.

He added that this year’s programme would, among others, include exhibitions, wine-tasting and investment seminars.