South Africa will participate as the Guest Country of Honour at the 4th China – Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), taking place from 12–15 June 2025 in Changsha, Hunan Province.
This milestone moment hosted under the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will see South Africa leading a dynamic cross-sector presence at one of the most significant platforms for trade engagement between China and Africa.
With the theme “China and Africa: Together Toward Modernisation,” CAETE 2025 arrives at a time of shifting global trade dynamics and growing South – South cooperation.
For South Africa, it offers a strategic foothold for advancing investment partnerships, showcasing its export-ready sectors, and fostering greater cultural and creative collaboration with the Chinese market and beyond.
South Africa’s participation is being delivered in partnership with Brand South Africa, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), the South Africa International E-commerce Association (SAIEA), and the Gauteng Provincial Government, with support from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), and other key public and private sector stakeholders.
As Guest Country of Honour, South Africa will anchor a multi-dimensional showcase that includes:
- A 250sqm National Pavilion, curated by Brand South Africa, presenting the country’s investment case through immersive digital experiences, product exhibitions, and B2B matchmaking opportunities.
- A fashion and creative economy showcase delivered in partnership with Development Reimagined under the Africa Reimagined platform, featuring 10 renowned designers such as Rich Mnisi, Mantsho and Imprint.
- A delegation of 20 South African SMEs across agro-processing, cosmetics, textiles and beverages many entering China for the first time via e-commerce platforms like JD.com and supported by SAIEA.
- A series of high-level dialogues and business meetings with government officials, provincial representatives, and private sector leaders.
Speaking ahead of the Expo, Neville Matjie, CEO of Brand South Africa, noted: “We are proud to be representing not only South Africa, but the aspirations of a continent that is shaping the future of trade, innovation and culture. CAETE 2025 is a statement about where Africa is headed, and how South Africa is leading that journey.”
Also commenting on South Africa’s trade mission, Minister Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, said: “China is one of South Africa’s most significant trading partners, and CAETE provides a vital opportunity to deepen that relationship. This is not only about trade transactions it’s about driving industrialisation, opening new market pathways for SMEs, and ensuring that African producers participate meaningfully in global value chains.”
South Africa’s participation comes at a globally significant moment. As President of the G20 in 2025, the country is actively championing inclusive global governance, digital transformation, and sustainable development across Africa. CAETE 2025 will therefore serve as a live expression of South Africa’s leadership role in redefining global investment priorities and deepening interregional ties.
The CAETE platform is also uniquely positioned to support Africa’s creative economies offering pathways into China’s growing appetite for cultural exports and African-designed fashion. Through its collaboration with Development Reimagined, South Africa aims to open new markets for its creatives while strengthening cultural diplomacy.
As the Guest Country of Honour, South Africa’s participation at CAETE 2025 is a mark of diplomatic recognition and a practical step toward expanding its trade footprint, attracting long-term investment, and opening pathways for sector-led collaboration.
With the support of public and private sector partners, this presence affirms South Africa’s readiness to engage meaningfully with global markets and contribute to shared economic progress across the continent and beyond.
