Gqeberha businesses see G20 trade meeting as launchpad to global markets

Businesses in the Nelson Mandela Bay area are hoping South Africa's G20 Presidency will pave the way for their products to access global markets.

Local entrepreneurs are showcasing their products and seeking investors gathered in Gqeberha for the second day of the Trade and Investment Working Group Meeting.

The meeting, which includes delegates from more than 30 countries, is a precursor to Friday’s Ministerial Meeting.

Trade officials are set to continue deliberating on how to address trade turbulence and uncertainty, proposals for reforms in global trade institutions, and inclusive economic growth.

Owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are among those calling for a seat at the table to share in the economic opportunities.

Sinoxolo Manengela, a local entrepreneur and fashion designer from Ndimbi Clothing, says he is hopeful the forum will help his brand grow.

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“We’re here to mix and mingle with everyone from across the globe; we’re here to have conversations, see how we can collaborate with other countries, look at potential buyers, [and] potential investors so we can take Ndimbi from local to the world,” Manengela said.

Dave Coleman, General Manager of COTI Chocolate Manufacturers, said the company has already made some headway in competitive international markets.

“We have a factory down in Kensington, in Port Elizabeth [Gqeberha]. We specialise in zero-added sugar chocolate. We are moving into the vegan chocolate range as well. We’ve just sent some exports to Berlin—they arrived this morning, our first exports,” Coleman said. “We’ll be showcasing our products to the delegates at the G20 and hopefully we’ll get some good leads for the products to Africa and the rest of the world.”