The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has invited companies in the agroprocessing sector to apply for participation in Asia’s largest food fair, the SIAL China Food and Beverage Trade Fair, which will take place on May 18 to 20 in Shanghai.

The closing date for applications is March 11.

The DTIC will be assisting approved companies to participate in the exhibition through its Export Marketing & Investment Assistance Scheme. The objective of the scheme is to develop export markets for South African products and services and to recruit new foreign direct investment into the country.

Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Fikile Majola says SIAL China will offer the South African companies keen on promoting their products and services in foreign markets with the best platform to boost their visibility in China, and Asia in general.

“SIAL China is a leading platform for international producers and manufacturers of food products, wines, spirits and food service equipment. China ranks as the largest consumer of food and beverages with an estimated value of over €1-trillion.

“South African companies showcasing at SIAL will be in a position to establish contact with food manufacturers, distributors, importers, wholesalers and retailers, as well as representatives of institutional and commercial catering companies,” explains Majola.

He adds that participating in SIAL China will also offer the South African businesspeople a unique opportunity to meet market leaders of the food, beverage and hospitality industry from across the globe.

This will enable them to establish new contacts and identify suppliers and business partners from various countries.

There are also other conferences that will take place as part of the trade fair, which will provide knowledge and information exchange between industry experts on current issues, trends and future prospects.