The outward selling mission to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia led by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) this week has generated positive leads for the South African companies which were part of the delegation.
The Executive Director of the Johannesburg-based Batseta Engineering Services, Ms Nontutuzeko Ngaleka says she made use of the opportunity to establish trade leads and business networks in Saudi Arabia. Ngaleka, who is involved in high-tech construction, says she is optimistic that the leads and networks she has established will bear positive results and will see her doing business in Saudi Arabia or with Saudi companies soon.
"I was really impressed by the business environment in Saudi Arabia. During the seminars and business-to-business meetings that we had I learnt that the country is in need of expertise especially in the construction sector. It also became clear that Saudi Arabia wants to build a strong economy sourcing skills from different economies especially South Africa," says Ngakela.
Mr Leonard Arrangies of The Art of Taste companies which is based in Stellenbosch where it is operating in the agro-processing sector says his mission in Saudi Arabia was to explore opportunities in the sector with the aim of supplying a number of food chains and hotels in Riyadh.
"I had numerous meetings with potential investors and businesspeople who have shown interest in our products and we have made a commitment to make follow-up trips soon. We are planning to use Saudi Arabia as a platform for our company to explore other markets in the Middle East that have potential," says Arrangies.
According to the Director of Export Marketing at the dti, Mr Ernest Moagi the mission to Saudi Arabia was one step towards achieving an increase in trade between South Africa and Saudi Arabia
"In general, the South African business delegates gained lot of insight in doing business in Saudi Arabia. Two of the companies could sign contracts and form joint ventures soon as a result of the mission. Several Saudi companies are looking forward to travelling to South Africa on a reciprocal visit which will further strengthen economic ties between the two countries and create more opportunities for trade and investment," adds Moagi .
Enquiries:
Bongani Lukhele, Acting Chief Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 012 394 1643
Cell: 079 5083 457
E-mail: Blukhele@thedti.gov.za
