Mashatile Calls for Bold Action to Double Trade Between South Africa and France

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on business leaders in France and South Africa to double their current trade volume, as he led a high-level delegation to an investment conference in Paris this week. With President Cyril Ramaphosa simultaneously engaging U.S. officials in Washington, Mashatile’s mission was clear: strengthen ties with France, reduce trade barriers, and position South Africa as a prime destination for global investment.

Speaking to delegates, Mashatile emphasized that South Africa was actively reforming its economic landscape to attract more foreign investment. “We are looking at our regulations, procurement frameworks, and key legislation to make it easier for businesses to invest and operate in South Africa,” he said.

France is already a key player.

Ranked as South Africa’s 14th largest investor, French companies have injected over R70 billion into South African projects since the inaugural investment summit eight years ago. However, Mashatile made it clear that more could—and should—be done.

Delegates from both countries shared the sentiment. Philippe Labonne, CEO of Africa Global Logistics, noted South Africa’s agricultural strength, saying, “There’s huge potential for collaboration, especially in agriculture. South Africa exports a lot, and France is open to more.”

Timing and strategy align

The Paris conference comes at a crucial diplomatic moment. While Ramaphosa works to mend tense relations with the Trump administration in Washington, Mashatile’s presence in Europe signals South Africa’s intent to diversify trade partnerships and reduce overreliance on any single geopolitical bloc.

Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zuko Godlimpi added that the upcoming meeting between the South African delegation and French President Emmanuel Macron would offer deeper insights into France’s broader trade strategy. “Understanding how France views the global trade environment—beyond just our bilateral ties—is critical for future collaboration,” Godlimpi said.

Building long-term momentum

Mashatile’s vision includes institutionalizing this dialogue. He proposed that the South Africa-France investment conference be held biennially to maintain momentum and accountability.

For South African businesses, the event is not just about attracting foreign capital. It also presents an opportunity to expand their footprint in the French market and across Europe.

As the two nations look toward shared growth and prosperity, this conference is shaping up to be more than a diplomatic gesture—it’s a bold call for concrete economic action.

{Source: SABC News}

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