Strengthening Bilateral Trade: Pakistan and South Africa at the 2nd Pak-Africa Trade Summit

Strategic Insights -

Pakistani and South African business leaders and government representatives converged at the 2nd Pak-Africa Trade Summit in Johannesburg, forging meaningful dialogue on trade and investment opportunities between the two nations. The summit's Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Pakistan SADC Chamber Trade Federation (PSCTF) and the Minara Chamber of Commerce strengthened institutional ties, further laying the groundwork for increased cooperation. Delegates from Pakistan welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need for stronger trade cooperation between the two nations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2nd Pak-Africa Trade Summit brought together over 40 Pakistani delegates, senior government officials, and industry leaders from Pakistan and South Africa for bilateral trade and investment discussions.
  • The summit resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Pakistan SADC Chamber Trade Federation (PSCTF) and the Minara Chamber of Commerce, further strengthening institutional ties between the two nations.
  • Pakistan's Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, described South Africa as a 'gateway to Africa' and positioning Pakistan as a gateway to Central Asia and China, highlighting the untapped trade potential between the two countries.
  • The current bilateral trade stands at $200 million in Pakistani exports to South Africa and $400 million in South African exports to Pakistan.
  • South Africa's Minister for Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni Abrahams, highlighted opportunities in agriculture, livestock, technology, power, and manufacturing, emphasizing the halal market, engineering capabilities, and technological expertise of Pakistan.
  • South African Deputy Minister for Social Development, Ganief Hendricks, praised PSCTF's role in fostering closer relations and suggested that its Chairman, Mr. Rafiq Memon, could represent South Africa in Parliament for his dedication to strengthening bilateral trade.
  • Noted speakers, including Neil Pollock (SACCI) and Dr. Kenny S. Hlela (Gemini Advisory), collectively emphasized that the summit's success lies in PSCTF's leadership and commitment in bringing together government ministers, business leaders, and community representatives under one platform.

Statistics:

  • Over 40 Pakistani delegates, senior government officials, and industry leaders attended the summit.
  • Current bilateral trade stands at $200 million in Pakistani exports to South Africa and $400 million in South African exports to Pakistan.
  • The summit was attended by 15 high-level dignitaries from both countries.

Sources:

  • The 2nd Pak-Africa Trade Summit was held in Johannesburg on 12-13 August 2025.
  • Pakistan SADC Chamber Trade Federation (PSCTF) and the Minara Chamber of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
  • The summit was organized by PSCTF in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission, GGDA, the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce, Minara Chamber of Commerce, CBE, and other partner organizations.