SA delegation heads for Havana Fair
2 November 2009
Deputy Trade and Industry Minister Thandi Tobias-Pokolo is leading a 40-member government and business delegation to the 27th edition of the Havana International Trade Fair, taking place in Cuba from 2 to 7 November.
The department has participated in the annual fair since 2004, with the exception of 2005.
"South Africa regards Cuba as a strategic partner in the Caribbean, and the visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen relations between the two countries," Tobias-Pokolo said in a statement this week.
President Jacob Zuma, in his address during the United Nations General Assembly in September this year, called for the removal of the US trade embargo on Cuba.
"Cuba has the potential to emerge as a significant oil producer, with opportunities arising in this area," Tobias-Pokolo explained. "In addition, it has a growing tourism sector, and South Africa is well-placed to supply the necessary products to that market."
Bilateral trade and investment
Cuba is an important trading partner for South African exporters, and the department has secured a pavilion for South Africa's participation, where 34 companies will showcase their technological and industrial capabilities. The companies include emerging, well established, as well as women-owned companies.
The targeted sectors include agro-processing, biotechnology, automotives, construction, pharmaceuticals, capital equipment (including mining equipment), chemicals, electro-technology (security systems) and engineering services.
In 2008, South Africa exported goods to the value of almost R82-million to Cuba, while importing goods to the value of about R15.7-million.
South Africa's participation in the Fair will promote its exports as well as investment potential to Cuba.
The Fair will also provide an opportunity for South African companies to showcase their products and services, and network with their counterparts from the rest of the world and Cuba in particular, she said.
SAinfo reporter
Would you like to use this article in your publication or on your website? See: Using SAinfo material
