PHL Embassy in Pretoria Successfully Participates in Africa – ASEAN Business Expo in Johannesburg

The Philippine Embassy’s booth promoting tourism is visited by members of the diplomatic corps and businessmen at the Africa – ASEAN Business Expo held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on November 06 to 08.

20 November 2017 PRETORIA – The Philippine Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa has reported that the first ever Africa - ASEAN Business Expo was successfully held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on November 06 to 08. The Embassy installed a tourism promotion booth throughout the 3-day event, and Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Joselito Chad Jacinto gave a business opportunity presentation on the Philippines on November 07.

Participants to the Expo stressed the growing importance of South Africa as a gateway market to the rest of Africa which is seen as the next big destination for business and investment. Expo visitors were one in the expectation that gaining a business foothold in South Africa produces a multiplier effect for opportunities in the rest of the region.

CDA Jacinto highlighted in his presentation on November 07 the Philippines’ strong economic performance in the past recent years, the high economic growth expectations for the coming years, as well as the government and business efficiencies that contribute to a robust investment climate in the country. He also gave a background on Pres. Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” program to accelerate infrastructure development which is expected to translate into greater economic productivity for the people of the Philippines.

Key exports of the Philippines to South Africa include automotive components, semiconductors, photovoltaic cells, light emitting diodes (LEDs), arcade gaming machines, tobacco, anti-knock preparations, and polyethylene; while key South African exports to the Philippines are chemicals, iron, vegetable seeds, maize and propellent powders.

CDA Jacinto also encouraged South African businessmen to look into opportunities to partner with small and medium Philippine businessmen who are interested to enter the African market. Recalling the Market Opportunity Mapping Mission to South Africa led by the Philippines’ DTI in June-July this year, CDA Jacinto mentioned possibilities for partnering with Philippine businesses involved in food and beverage, food preparations, perfumes, cosmetics, coconut oil products and organic/herbal medicines. END

For more information, visit www.pretoriape.dfa.gov.ph.

Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Joselito Chad Jacinto discusses business opportunities for the Philippines and South Africa with Black Business Council President Dr. Danisa Baloyi.

CdA Jacinto presents opportunities for doing business with the Philippines at the Africa-ASEAN Business Expo.