Vince Xie

    SZ_DailyVince@163.com

    A DELEGATION from Midrand, South Africa made its debut at the 18th CHTF yesterday, seeking potential cooperation and international trade in the information technology and telecom industries.

    The South African Electrotechnical Export Council (SAEEC) is a nonprofit organization established by the Department of Trade and Industry of South Africa, which is uniquely positioned to support the growth of exports among its members. It focuses on information technology, electronics, telecommunications, electrical engineering and business services.

    “I know that Shenzhen is a city of innovation. Internet and telecom giants like Huawei and Tencent are headquartered in Shenzhen. And this is my first time in Shenzhen. The fair is much bigger than I had expected,” said Chiboni Evans, CEO of the South African Electrotechnical Export Council.

    Evans said that they have little knowledge about the local market and industries in Shenzhen, but they are learning and seeking the opportunity to cooperate with local enterprises. “Our members vary from hardware industry to software industry. We’re open-minded to cooperation, but we have to learn how to deal with Chinese businessmen in a Chinese way.”

    In recent years, China has been pumping more investment into the African market, and the Chinese Government keeps enhancing its support in African countries, especially in infrastructure construction.

    “China and South Africa are both BRICS countries. China has now become the engine of the global economy. It’s necessary for both countries to establish a mutually beneficial partnership in international trade,” said Nthabiseng Dube, a member of the SAEEC board.