China and Joburg Deepen Economic Partnership at Strategic Trade Summit
Chinese and South African officials, business leaders and community representatives gathered in Johannesburg this week for a high-level engagement aimed at deepening economic ties and unlocking new trade opportunities between the two partners.
The China (Shenzhen Longhua)–South Africa (Johannesburg) Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference, held on April 21, brought together more than 100 delegates from government, industry and overseas Chinese organisations. The event highlighted a growing push to translate long-standing diplomatic relations into more tangible economic outcomes at city and district level.
Addressing the conference, Deputy Consul General Zhou Yujiang outlined China’s evolving economic roadmap under its 15th Five-Year Plan, placing emphasis on innovation, green development and expanded global trade links. He said these priorities are opening new doors for cooperation with African economies, particularly South Africa, which remains one of China’s key strategic partners on the continent. “China is committed to high-quality development and high-level opening up,” Zhou told delegates. “We encourage local governments and enterprises from both sides to seize these opportunities, strengthen collaboration, and fully utilise our complementary strengths.”
Zhou also pointed to China’s zero-tariff policy for a wide range of African exports as a practical measure already delivering benefits. The policy is expected to improve market access for South African goods, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and minerals, while helping to rebalance trade flows. The conference featured a strong delegation from Shenzhen’s Longhua District, a fast-growing innovation hub known for advanced manufacturing, digital technology and smart city development. Deputy District Mayor Wang Dianjia said Longhua is actively seeking international partnerships and sees South Africa as a gateway to broader African markets. “We are eager to build mutually beneficial partnerships with Johannesburg and Gauteng,” Wang said. “There is significant potential in areas such as technology exchange, industrial development and infrastructure cooperation.”
South African leaders at the event echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of localised partnerships that can drive job creation and inclusive growth. Thulani Kunene, Deputy Chairperson of Committees in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, said the province is positioning itself as a competitive investment destination. “Engagements like this are critical in attracting investment and strengthening economic cooperation,” Kunene noted. “Our focus is on ensuring that these partnerships translate into real opportunities for our communities.”
City of Ekurhuleni councillor Dora Mlambo highlighted the role of municipalities in facilitating trade and investment, adding that collaboration at city level can accelerate development outcomes. Officials from the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Economic Development also used the platform to showcase local investment opportunities and outline support mechanisms for foreign investors.
Beyond formal speeches, the conference provided a platform for networking and business matchmaking, with participants exploring potential deals and partnerships across sectors including manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure and technology. As global economic dynamics continue to shift, the conference underscored the importance of sub-national diplomacy and practical cooperation. For both China and South Africa, the message was clear strengthening economic ties at local level could be key to sustaining growth and building a more resilient, mutually beneficial partnership.
