Introduction

The ninth South Africa–China Trade Fair, held in 2025, marked another major milestone in the deepening economic and diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The fair, hosted in Johannesburg, brought together government leaders, business executives, investors, and innovators from both countries to discuss new opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.

Under the theme “Partnership for Sustainable Growth and Shared Prosperity,” the event showcased how South Africa and China continue to strengthen their bilateral ties through trade diversification, technological cooperation, and cultural exchange. With record-breaking participation and strategic agreements signed, the ninth fair solidified the partnership as one of the most influential alliances within the BRICS and South–South cooperation frameworks.

A Growing Economic Partnership

The trade relationship between South Africa and China has flourished over the past two decades. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1998, the two countries have developed a comprehensive strategic partnership anchored in mutual growth and shared development goals.

China remains South Africa’s largest trading partner, while South Africa stands as China’s top trading partner in Africa. Trade between the two countries has grown exponentially, surpassing $60 billion annually, with investments spanning across infrastructure, energy, mining, manufacturing, and technology.

The South Africa–China Trade Fair has become a central platform for advancing this partnership — offering businesses, policymakers, and investors a venue to strengthen cooperation and identify new avenues for growth.

Record Attendance and Investment Commitments

The ninth edition of the fair saw unprecedented participation, with more than 700 exhibitors and 12,000 delegates from various sectors attending. Both South African and Chinese enterprises used the platform to explore business collaborations and showcase their innovations.

Key achievements from the 2025 fair included:

• The signing of trade and investment deals valued at over $6 billion, covering energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and digital technology.
• A renewed five-year cooperation agreement between South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and China’s Ministry of Commerce.
• Announcements of joint ventures to promote industrialization and local production in South Africa.

These outcomes demonstrated a shared commitment to enhancing economic collaboration and promoting inclusive, sustainable development.

Strengthening Industrial and Technological Cooperation

1. Industrialization and Local Manufacturing

Industrial cooperation remained a key focus of the fair. Chinese companies presented new technologies to support South Africa’s manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on skills development and technology transfer. Plans were announced to expand Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that host joint industrial projects, aiming to boost local production and employment.

2. Renewable Energy and Green Development

In response to the global call for sustainability, the fair placed significant emphasis on renewable energy collaboration. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to green growth, with Chinese firms showcasing innovations in solar, wind, and hydrogen energy. South African partners explored ways to integrate these technologies into the country’s evolving energy landscape.

3. Digital Transformation and Innovation

Technology and innovation took center stage at the fair’s Digital Economy Pavilion. Startups from both countries presented advancements in artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and fintech. Several MoUs were signed to promote cooperation in 5G technology, cloud computing, and smart city infrastructure, further enhancing South Africa’s digital transformation efforts.

4. Agricultural Collaboration

Agriculture continued to serve as a vital link between the two nations. South African exporters showcased high-quality citrus fruits, wines, and nuts, while Chinese buyers expressed interest in expanding agricultural imports. The fair also highlighted opportunities for agricultural technology exchange and value-added processing in South Africa.

Trade Balance and Market Access

While the trade relationship between South Africa and China remains strong, addressing trade imbalances remains a key priority. During the fair, both governments reaffirmed their intention to promote balanced trade growth through policy support and export diversification.

South Africa aims to increase exports of manufactured goods and value-added products, while China committed to providing greater market access for South African agricultural and industrial exports. These initiatives are expected to enhance economic inclusivity and stimulate domestic job creation.

Cultural and Educational Cooperation

Beyond business, the ninth South Africa–China Trade Fair also served as a celebration of cultural exchange and human connection.

Cultural Exchange Programs

The fair featured a Cultural Exchange Pavilion, where traditional Chinese art and South African music, dance, and crafts were showcased. These exhibitions highlighted the rich diversity and shared values between the two nations, fostering deeper understanding and friendship.

Academic and Skills Development Partnerships

Universities from both countries signed new agreements to expand academic exchange programs, scholarships, and language training. This educational cooperation aims to nurture a new generation of entrepreneurs and professionals equipped to strengthen the future of South Africa–China relations.

Role in South–South Cooperation and BRICS

The ninth South Africa–China Trade Fair also highlighted the importance of South–South cooperation and the BRICS alliance (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).

As developing nations, South Africa and China share a common vision for inclusive global development, advocating for fair trade and technological empowerment among emerging economies. The fair served as a platform to align their development strategies — combining China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) to foster infrastructure, connectivity, and industrial growth across Africa.

Future Outlook: Strengthening Ties for a Shared Future

The outcomes of the ninth trade fair have set the stage for even greater cooperation in the coming years. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to:

• Expanding collaboration in digital innovation and green technology.
• Supporting SMEs and youth entrepreneurship through capacity-building programs.
• Enhancing trade logistics and connectivity across Africa.
• Promoting cultural and educational exchange as a foundation for long-term partnership.

Looking ahead, the upcoming tenth South Africa–China Trade Fair is expected to draw even wider participation, with a focus on smart manufacturing, sustainable finance, and the digital economy.

Conclusion

The ninth South Africa–China Trade Fair proved to be more than a commercial gathering — it was a celebration of partnership, progress, and shared vision. It highlighted how two nations, rooted in mutual respect and cooperation, continue to drive economic transformation and sustainable development.