South Africa’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr. Mogobo Magabe, has encouraged South African companies participating in the Outward Selling Mission (OSM) to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to actively seek out opportunities to expand their businesses in the Kingdom.
The Saudi Arabia OSM, held from 10 to 12 November, forms part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (the dtic) broader initiative to expose local enterprises to global export prospects.
A group of 12 South African companies, primarily from the agro-processing and medical equipment sectors, have received support from the dtic to travel to Saudi Arabia. Their objective is to engage with potential business partners and facilitate market access for South African value-added products and services in Saudi Arabia.
Ambassador Magabe highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to help local businesses comply with Saudi Arabia’s food safety and security standards following the lifting of the ban on South African meat products in 2023.
“We have worked closely with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to ensure our facilities meet halal requirements. Currently, about 20 South African companies are collaborating with distributors to export our meat products, and we are now exploring opportunities for poultry exports. Last year alone, up to 200 new restaurants opened in the Kingdom, all requiring a steady poultry supply. South Africa is also a reputable exporter of medical equipment to the Gulf Cooperation Council and the broader Middle East, presenting further opportunities for both government and private sector entities,” said Magabe.
He added that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 presented significant prospects for South Africa’s economy. Vision 2030 is a government-led plan to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, society, and culture.
“With a population exceeding 34 million, Saudi Arabia represents a significant market for South African companies. Its strategic location also provides access to the Middle East, Asia, North Africa, and even Europe, being just a step away from the Red Sea. The country’s 13 regions and the expansion of multilateral companies under Vision 2030 bode well for South African business interests,” Magabe concluded.
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Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
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