President Ramaphosa Hails New Era of Opportunity in SA-China Relations

The President described the move as a significant boost to the political, economic, and social ties between the two countries.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that relations between South Africa and China have entered a transformative "new era of opportunity." This follows his official State Visit to China last week, where both nations agreed to elevate their relationship to an All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era. The President described the move as a significant boost to the political, economic, and social ties between the two countries.

“Strengthening ties with major trading partners like China continues to benefit the South African economy and its people. It is clear that relations between South Africa and China have entered a new era of opportunity,” said Ramaphosa in his weekly newsletter.

During the visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping voiced support for increased trade in finished goods from South Africa, addressing the current trade imbalance where South Africa primarily exports minerals and agricultural products while importing manufactured goods. President Xi pledged to open Chinese markets to more South African products and enhance Chinese investment in South Africa’s economy, particularly in manufacturing.

Ramaphosa highlighted China’s interest in South Africa's low-carbon, climate-resilient growth sectors, including electric vehicles, renewable energy, and green hydrogen. Infrastructure investment, particularly in ports, rail, and roads, also holds potential for collaboration.

The enhanced partnership is expected to have impacts beyond South Africa. During the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), both leaders discussed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and China's plans to support Africa's industrialisation through investment in manufacturing, agriculture, health, and infrastructure.

At the summit, President Xi announced ten partnership actions aimed at modernising African economies, emphasizing that China’s technological capabilities can support Africa’s export diversification and industrial growth.