South Africa’s presence at the African Fair 2013, in Yokahama, Japan has yielded quality leads from major importers, trading houses and distributors in the first day of the Fair. According to the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, Japanese buyers and consumers were captivated by the diverse array of unique products at the South African stand, and significant trade enquires were generated for all products.
Davies says that on the first day alone, South Africa had already generated a potential inward mission to attend the Probeauty exhibition in September 2013 as well as a buyer’s visit to Jewellex 2013.
He mentioned that South Africa’s stand comprises amongst others, items such as Red Espresso rooibos, Thandi wines, Wedgewood nougat, Momentos of Africa fine kid-mohair blankets and accessories, unique artwork from Ardmore Ceramics, Carrol Boyes designware, and several profiles of diamond cutters and polishers from the State Diamond Trader.
The Minister stated that people at the Africa Fair have shown significant interest in our products.
“Amongst the South African products exhibited, Wedgewood Nougat and Red Espresso rooibos received overwhelming interest from the Japanese buyers and consumers”, Davies added. A Japanese buyer referred to Red Espresso as a unique product with numerous health benefits that provides an alternative to coffee. With Japan being one of the most important destinations in Asia for South African exports of cut and polished diamonds, a prominent Japanese jewellery group also expressed interest in collaborating with emerging diamond cutters and polishers in South Africa, mentioned Davies.
The Japanese were also enchanted with the display of beautiful Ardmore Ceramics, which not only were eye catching, but had a story behind each piece. The artists of Ardmore Ceramics, have been developed from the community to display their creative talent and create employment opportunities, some of them suffering from HIV/AIDS.
Davies reiterated that South Africa’s objective in the fair is to promote bilateral business interaction between South Africa and Japan and impress upon the general Japanese consumer the appeal of South African products.
South Africa is participating in the 2nd African Fair at Yokohama in Japan, from 30 May to 2 June 2013. This is the biggest business event related to Africa in Japan. Various African countries are showcasing agro-processing, natural resources, handicrafts, textiles and leather related items.
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe, Departmental Spokesperson
Tel: 012 394 1650
Cell: 079 492 1774
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
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