An initiative between the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to open up opportunities for young entrepreneurs in the export commodity market. Following a meeting between Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Thandi Tobias and NYDA Chairperson Andile Lungisa in Pretoria this week, an agreement has been reached between the two institutions to convene a youth summit that will present opportunities for young people who want to take advantage of exporting products to outside countries.
During the summit young people will be given information regarding countries with which South Africa has trade links as well as opportunities that are available in markets in those countries. Young people will also be expected to present viable business ideas and the support they require to take advantage of the export market. One of the major challenges facing young entrepreneurs is access to business funding as well as market opportunities.
Through this initiative the NYDA and DTI will be working to bridge this gap, and encourage young entrepreneurs to create products for exports. The initiative will also help expose young people to training opportunities with international partners through possible exchange programmes. Some of the opportunities available in commodity exports include biofuels, leather and footwear, fruit, vegetables and other farm produce.
The DTI seeks to increase market access for South African products worldwide, while the NYDA is mandated to create a conducive environment for young people to participate in the mainstream economy and access development opportunities.
Young people who have registered businesses focusing on export commodities but are unable to gain access to the market are encouraged to contact the NYDA to register their company profiles on the NYDA Business Opportunities Support Service database available from www.nyda.gov.za or call 08600 YOUTH (96884) for enquiries.
Enquiries:
Siyabonga Magadla
Cell: 083 686 9016
Opportunities to benefit young entrepreneurs in the export commodity market
