Beijing: South Africa has taken a major step to strengthen its trade ties with China after its trade minister signed a new economic partnership agreement during an official visit to Beijing.
The agreement was signed by South Africa’s Trade Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and Chinese officials. It sets the framework for closer economic cooperation and is expected to open the door for duty free access for South African goods entering the Chinese market.
According to officials, the framework agreement lays the groundwork for an early harvest deal that could be finalised by the end of March. Once completed, this next stage would allow selected South African exports to enter China without import duties.
The move comes at a time when South Africa is looking to diversify its export markets. Trade relations with the United States have become more uncertain, with higher tariffs imposed on some South African products and only a short term extension granted to the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
During his visit, Tau also met representatives of Chinese companies to encourage new investment in South Africa. The government hopes stronger ties with China will help boost exports support local industries and create jobs.
China is already South Africa’s largest trading partner. Officials believe the new agreement could further increase trade volumes and reduce South Africa’s reliance on traditional Western markets.
The deal also reflects a wider trend of African countries seeking deeper trade partnerships with China as global trade patterns continue to shift.