Building a bridge to China trade
The Ekurhuleni Business Initiative along with the Captains of Industry Forum is urging local businesses to visit and to make use of the China Trader Expo.
The expo will be held at the China-Southern Africa Trade and Expo Centre from November 9 to 12 at Crown Mines (12 Jupiter Road, Johannesburg).
During this exciting event a unique platform will be established in order for businessmen from both China and from around South Africa and Africa to engage and to establish trade relations.
Jenny Jiang, CEO of the African Region of FLT Holdings, who owns the centre and many other Chinese malls in South Africa, said this is a perfect opportunity for anyone who wants to sell their products to China.
“One needs to realise China is a massive country with around 1.3 billion people, and it is an overwhelming prospect from a South African point of view where to start if you wish to trade or establish a business partnership with China.
“This expo will serve as a catalyst to make this journey so much easier.
“It is important to realise that for a long time China eyed the European market, but the interest is slowly turning towards Africa for investment and trade. This is therefore the golden opportunity to get involved.
“This is the first expo of its kind looking at exporting South African products to China. We have already invited over 200 entrepreneurs, procurement managers and key decision makers as delegates from Guangdong province in China.
“This is a great opportunity for local manufacturers, designers and distributors to showcase their products to them and eventually export their products to China.
“We have also secured around 130 stalls for South African businesses (of any industry) to exhibit and we wish to call on all SMMEs to take up this opportunity.
“We therefore welcome individuals and organisations such as manufacturers, designers, craftsmen, suppliers, retailers, travel agents and many more.
“All the suppliers coming from overseas are recommended by Bureaux of Commerce of Guangdong Province. They will bring their newest range of products such as furniture, lights, electronics, home appliances, bathroom and hardware.
“Even better, a lot of these suppliers and entrepreneurs who are coming will also be willing to stay in the country for at least the next year so that a relation of trust can be built and market knowledge can be shared.”
Chris van Biljon of the EBI said this is an incredible opportunity, as the expo falls in line with the Aerotropolis vision of establishing trade internationally.
“This is an opportunity not to be missed and can open many doors for local businesses. We need to look broader and wider if we wish to be successful and if we wish to help stimulate this country’s economy.”
Visitors will be able to attend the expo free of charge.
For more information phone Thully Mncusini on 011 608 1107.
