Accompanied by several ministers and deputy ministers, Mashatile's visit marks a significant effort to bolster trade, investment, and collaboration in key industries.

According to his Spokesperson, Keith Khoza, this high-level visit is the first in a decade and has been warmly received by Japanese counterparts. The discussions will focus on increasing trade volumes, fostering business partnerships, and addressing Japan’s stringent import regulations that impact SA exports.

One of the key highlights of the visit was Mashatile’s tour of Isuzu’s assembly plant in SA’s Eastern Cape. The Deputy President and his delegation assessed the plant’s operations, emphasising its role in expanding vehicle exports across Africa.

Isuzu’s continued investment in SA underlines the importance of the automotive industry as a cornerstone of trade relations between the two countries.

Mashatile is also set to engage with the Japan International Co-operation Agency to explore areas of economic collaboration, as well as the Japan-African Union Parliamentary Friendship League, which fosters diplomatic relations with African nations. He will further meet with the Association for African Economic Development in Japan to discuss trade and investment opportunities.

A significant aspect of his itinerary includes a visit to the United Nations University in Japan, where he will deliver a lecture on the G20 and Africa’s role in shaping global economic policies. Given Japan’s standing as the world’s fourth-largest economy and a key G20 member, Mashatile’s discussions will focus on how South Africa can leverage this platform to advance the African agenda.

In addition, he will hold meetings with the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security, highlighting SA’s mining sector as a vital investment opportunity. Several roundtable discussions will also be held, addressing key topics such as automotive industry expansion, carbon neutrality, energy security, and mining investments.

Khoza emphasised that the success of this visit will be measured by the agreements and commitments secured between SA and Japan. With both countries marking 115 years of diplomatic relations, this visit seeks to cement a future of increased trade and strengthened bilateral ties.

--ChannelAfrica--