“Ramaphosa Heralds ‘New Era of Opportunity’ in Strengthened South Africa-China Relations”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the evolving relationship between South Africa and China, describing it as entering a “new era of opportunity.” Following an official state visit to China, President Ramaphosa discussed the deepening ties between the two nations in his weekly newsletter.

During the visit, both countries agreed to upgrade their relationship to an “All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era,” which underscores the growing political, economic, and social connections between South Africa and China. The President emphasized that these strengthened ties have already started to bring tangible benefits to South Africa’s economy and its people.

A key point of discussion between President Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping was the trade imbalance between the two countries. While South Africa primarily exports minerals and agricultural products to China and imports manufactured goods, President Xi expressed a desire to see more finished goods from South Africa entering Chinese markets. He also committed to opening Chinese markets further to South African products and increasing Chinese investment in the South African economy.

Additionally, the two leaders discussed the potential for collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, green hydrogen, and infrastructure development. President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of these sectors for South Africa’s pursuit of low-carbon, climate-resilient economic growth.

The visit also included participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), where the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was a significant focus. The AfCFTA, with its access to a market of over 1.3 billion people, offers substantial incentives for increased Chinese investment in Africa’s manufacturing capabilities. President Xi announced ten partnership actions to support the modernization of African economies, spanning areas like trade, industrial development, agriculture, health, and infrastructure.

President Ramaphosa concluded by noting that the enhanced relations between China and South Africa hold the potential to bring opportunities not just to the two countries but also to the broader African continent.