A delegation comprising 18 companies from China met with South African businessmen in Johannesburg in a bid to clinch business deals.

The delegation showcased what they can produce and invited the South African companies to partner with them, said Wu Kunte, who led the delegation.

"What we are trying to do is to further strengthen the trade relations between China and South Africa, Kunte said, adding that they decided to come to South Africa to seek opportunities in the country.

"We are here to explore business opportunities and promote bilateral trade between South Africans and Chinese. We want local people to access cheaper but durable Chinese goods," he said.

Chris van Biljon, CEO of Ekurhuleni Business Initiative in Johannesburg, said that they are ready to work with the Chinese to promote trade relations to a higher level.

He said, "I would like to thank the Chinese for bringing opportunities to Johannesburg. I invite the South Africans to talk with the Chinese and collaborate. This paves a way for the small and medium scale enterprises to start and grow. The reason is to enhance economic cooperation between South Africa and China. Let us all go out all the way and even to go to China for more opportunities."

The China-Southern Africa Trade Expo (CSATEC) will launch an exhibition centre in Johannesburg in June 2016 where 280 Chinese companies would showcase what they can produce. The first expo would be held in November 2016.

South African businessman, Rofhiwa Malima, said that the manufacturing Indaba (meeting) was very informative. He said he would like to open an electronic shop and was looking forward to partnering with a Chinese company.

"The manufacturing Indaba was an eye opener. As a young and upcoming entrepreneur it is good for us to be exposed to such opportunities. I loved the advancement in technology shown by these Chinese. I hope to partner them in future when I have set up my company," Malima said.

The organiser of the meeting, Thulie Mncusini from Buy Fast/NF Online, said that the show was insightful. She stated that it is their hope that South Africans and the Chinese companies will clinch deals to benefit from their cooperation.

Wu Shoakeng, the president of CSATEC said the exhibition centre would present a platform for the South Africans to have access to the Chinese products. He stated that they would like to see more cultural and economic cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency April 24, 2016)