Tulani Ngwenya
South Africa, Durban – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa oversaw the historic beginning of South Africa’s first shipment and preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) at the busy Port of Durban. The signing of the SARS products certification of origin, which marks the start of South Africa’s preferential trade within the AFCFTA, was flanked by Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan, Transnet Acting Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips and SARS Regional Director Dan Zulu on January 31.
Addressing a gathering of esteemed dignitaries, including Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Ebrahim Patel, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, AFCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene, and representatives of the AFCFTA Council of Ministers, President Ramaphosa emphasised the transformative potential of the AFCFTA in driving economic growth and fostering regional integration.
“This moment marks a significant milestone in Africa’s economic journey. Today, we embark on a path of preferential trade that holds the promise of unlocking new opportunities for growth and prosperity,” President Ramaphosa remarked.
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The successful implementation of the AFCFTA, President Ramaphosa noted, will lead to diversification of exports, increased productive capacity, acceleration of growth, increased investment, and expanded employment opportunities. Moreover, it holds the promise of broadening economic inclusion both within South Africa and across the continent.
“Our participation in the AFCFTA signals our commitment to building a more integrated and prosperous Africa. By harnessing the collective strength of our continent, we can overcome shared challenges and seize opportunities for mutual benefit,” President Ramaphosa stated.
Witnessing the departure of the first shipment of proudly South African products destined for Ghana, President Ramaphosa hailed this moment as a tangible demonstration of the AFCFTA’s capacity to unlock new market access opportunities and stimulate growth for South African exporters.
“As this vessel sets sail, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of our nation. It symbolises the beginning of a new era of trade relations between South Africa and its African counterparts,” President Ramaphosa remarked.
With the launch of South Africa’s preferential trade under the AFCFTA, President Ramaphosa affirmed the nation’s commitment to harnessing the continent’s vast potential for the benefit of all its people.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that our success lies in our unity and cooperation. Together, we can build a future of shared prosperity and opportunity for generations to come,” President Ramaphosa concluded.