13-AUG-12·	SA tops ranks for ease of doing business in BRICS
	Posted by | trade
	At a global rank of 34, SA placed ahead of China, Russia, Brazil and India in the ease of doing business report. Higher rankings indicate simpler regulations and procedures for international business practices, as well as international investor trust.

03-AUG-12·	SA policy options constrained, says Marcus
	Posted by | trade
	The impact of the global downturn on South Africa is already evident, with growth being below potential and a downward revision of growth forecast. According to Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus policy options in the current global downturn are constrained.

25-JUL-12·	Industrialisation key to Africa's development
	Posted by | trade
	Although Africa is the next growth frontier, the continent's development needs to be characterised by industrialisation, says Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies. The partnership between China and Africa is expected to contribute to economic performance by African countries.

25-JUL-12·	China proposes priority areas to boost Africa ties
	Posted by | trade
	Chinese President Hu Jintao proposed measures in five priority areas to boost the ties between China and Africa and provide $20 billion of credit line to African countries to assist them in developing infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and small and medium-sized enterprises.

25-JUL-12·	SA, China vow to boost strategic partnership
	Posted by | trade
	President Jacob Zuma held talks with his Chinese counterpart President Hu Jintao, where they pledged to jointly boost bilateral comprehensive strategic partnerships. China has become the largest trading partner of South Africa.

19-JUL-12·	Reasons why you should start an export or import business
	Posted by | trade
	If you can identify a product that is produced particularly well in your country, but does not yet exist in a country where it will be demanded, this provides a perfect business opportunity. Pierre Heistein talks about the purpose and benefits of trade.

10-JUL-12·	Emerging economies engineer global growth
	Posted by | trade
	While developed countries are expected to face debt and financial crises for some time emerging economies have become the new engines of economic growth according to thought leaders in the financial markets.

20-JUN-12·	SA must bolster industrial base to weather economic crisis
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa must strengthen the industrial arm of its economy if it is to successfully weather the fallout from the ominous Eurozone crisis, says Trade and Industry Director-General Lionel October.

12-JUN-12·	National payment system key for economies
	Posted by | trade
	A well-functioning national payment system is important to an economy and failure of such a system can have devastating effects on an economy, says Reserve Bank Deputy Governor Daniel Mminele.

06-JUN-12·	Enter the wide world of import and export
	Posted by | trade
	In the globalised world, it is not uncommon to wear American jeans while eating Thai food and reading a French magazine. While consumers take this level of variety for granted, those involved in the dynamic world of import and export management know how complex the process of international trade can be.

31-MAY-12·	The driving force behind Africa's growth
	Posted by | trade
	The sustained growth witnessed in Sub-Saharan Africa cannot be attributed solely to Chinese investment and the commodities boom and is driven by other key growth elements. Stability and security is one example of a contributing growth factor according to Dr David Bridgman.

11-MAY-12·	EU still SA’s largest trade bloc
	Posted by | trade
	The European Union (EU) is still South Africa’s largest trade bloc, with the composition of exports to the EU becoming more diverse, the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) said.

10-MAY-12·	Motlanthe calls for balance in economic power
	Posted by | trade
	World leaders have been urged to address the disparity in wealth between industrialised countries and developing nations in order to help strike the balance necessary to stabilise the global economic system.

04-MAY-12·	India, SA trade targets to be reached ahead of deadline
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and India are set to reach a target of 15 billion US dollars of trade before the agreed upon deadline of 2014, said President Jacob Zuma. The two countries are keen on expanding relations as various areas for economic cooperation exists, such as manufacturing and energy.

02-MAY-12·	SA invites India to invest in infrastructure plan
	Posted by | trade
	As part of efforts to deepen relations with India, South Africa has invited the Asian nation to invest in the country’s massive infrastructure plan announced in the State of the Nation Address.

30-APR-12·	SA, Saudi Arabia deepen relations
	Posted by | trade
	With the view of enhancing bilateral cooperation between South Africa and Saudia Arabia on areas of economic cooperation, Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim has begun a two-day tour to the Middle East and Asia.

26-APR-12·	SA pushing for BRICS Development Bank
	Posted by | trade
	The DevelopmentBank by the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) grouping, is expected to supplement the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

25-APR-12·	'More effective IDC increases loan approvals by 35%
	Posted by | trade
	The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has increased its turnaround time for approval of loans to businesses and has increased loans approvals by over 35%, the Minister of Economic Development Ebrahim Patel said in his Budget Vote speech.

13-APR-12·	The ties between South African and Australian economies
	Posted by | trade
	A mismatch in skills continues to hamper both Australian and South African industries. While both countries are predicting the shedding of many jobs this year, many industries are looking abroad to fill positions where skills are lacking.

12-APR-12·	Africa is the new growth hub – Zuma
	Posted by | trade
	Africa is experiencing economic transformation which is expected to improve the standard of living for all Africans. These were the sentiments of President Jacob Zuma at the 4th International Trade and Investment Conference.

14-FEB-12·	SA, UK to continue focus on doubling trade
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and the UK are looking to increase economic and trade ties by focusing on exporting high-value-added goods to Britain, the Minister of International Relations and Co-operation Maite Nkoana-Mashabane said.

06-FEB-12·	SA, France bolster relations
	Posted by | trade
	Top officials from South Africa and France have met in Pretoria to map a way forward on how to deepen political and economic relations between the two countries. The forum aims to strengthen bilateral trade and ensure that it is more balanced.

14-DEC-11·	Trade conditions move into positive territory
	Posted by | trade
	Trade conditions in November moved into positive territory, the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI), however the outlook for sales, new orders, employment and supplies for the next six months was slightly lower than in October.

14-DEC-11·	Zuma promotes intra-Africa trade
	Posted by | trade
	The African continent has been internationally recognised for its wealth in natural resources and African countries have been urged to take advantage of this potential by increasing inter-African trade and investment according to President Jacob Zuma.

18-NOV-11·	Taxation amendments aim to help grow economy
	Posted by | trade
	Adjustments to the country’s taxation bills currently before Parliament aim to help grow the South African economy, and will alleviate the burden on ordinary working citizens, says Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan.

14-NOV-11·	SA exports could suffer from Western green taxes
	Posted by | trade
	The Department of Trade and Industry has warned that South African exporters could lose billions of Rands if wealthy nations imposed tough tariffs on energy intensive imports from the developing world.

31-OCT-11·	BRICS ministers tackle agricultural issues
	Posted by | trade
	Representatives from the BRICS countries are meeting a second time to discuss ways of combating global hunger through agricultural developments, against the backdrop of unpredictable climate changes. The ministers have pledged their commitment to various food production initiatives.

20-OCT-11·	IBSA demands UN transformation
	Posted by | trade
	Leaders from the IBSA bloc have reaffirmed their commitment to increase the participation of developing countries in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions, including the United Nations Security Council.

19-OCT-11·	Business must take advantage of IBSA
	Posted by | trade
	Business has been encourage to take full advantage of the opportunites created by the India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) alliance, a trilateral developmental initiative between the three countries aimed at promoting South to South cooperation and exchange.

19-OCT-11·	IBSA leaders recommit to objectives
	Posted by | trade
	The emerging economies of India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) have agreed to greater coordination between the three countries with regard to issues around climate change, economic cooperation, sustainable development and the UN Security Council.

18-OCT-11·	Editors agree to intensify IBSA coverage
	Posted by | trade
	Editors from India, Brazil and South Africa have agreed to increase the flow of information between governments and the media in order to highlight the growing political and economic relations between the three countries.

18-OCT-11·	Improved trade relations between IBSA countries
	Posted by | trade
	The trilateral development initiative which incorporates India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA)has performed well against its targets by improving trade relations amongst the three countries according to Department of Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies.

11-OCT-11·	Davies counts motor industry gains
	Posted by | trade
	Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies has commended the multibillion rand contribution made by the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) into the sector over the years.

05-OCT-11·	SA, Turkey talk trade
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa has committed to developing stronger trade and investment related initiatives with its Turkish counterparts in order to grab hold of the enormous trade and investment opportunties that can only be attained through closer co-operation.

15-SEP-11·	Strikes bring trade index down
	Posted by | trade
	Trade conditions improved on the levels of June and July 2011 but remained in negative territory. The sharp decline was partly caused by the disruptions following strikes in July 2011," said South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

14-SEP-11·	Global competition will benchmark artisans
	Posted by | trade
	Team SA is ready to battle it out at the 41st WorldSkills Competition where 1 000 artisans from 50 countries will compete for the top honours in their trade, the contest is ideal for benchmarking skills across the globe and South Africa is currenlty ranked 47 out of the 54 participating countries.

12-SEP-11·	Dti approves grants for BPO
	Posted by | trade
	The Dti has approved grants to the value of R157.76 million under the business process outsourcing incentive scheme, which will be disbursed to 10 projects in the next three years with the expectation of creating over 11 000 jobs.

25-AUG-11·	Job Vacancies at Department of Trade and Industry
	Posted by | trade

18-AUG-11·	Trade conditions deteriorate in July
	Posted by | trade
	The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced that trade conditions had dipped drastically into negative territory during the month of July, as reflected by the Trade Activity Index.

22-JUN-11·	SA’s current account deficit widens to 3.1%
	Posted by | trade
	A current account deficit happens when a country’s imports of goods and services is superior to its exports of goods and services. Earlier this week, analysts had expected the deficit to reach -2.9 percent as a result of increased net investment-income payments to non-resident investors.

12-JUN-11·	SA and UK re-commit to doubling bi-lateral trade by 2015
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and the United Kingdom have recommitted to the target of doubling bilateral trade between the two countries by 2015. Following the 9th SA-UK Bilateral Forum, where the South African delegation was led by International Relations Minister Maite Nkoane-Mashabane, the two countries agreed to focus on building trade and investment in the following sectors various key sectors. This article provides the details.

12-MAY-11·	Skills trade idea a winner
	Posted by | trade
	Swop your employee for an apprentice and positively contribute to the technical skills landscape through the exchange and placement programme initiated by the National Skills Development Academy.

17-FEB-11·	December 2010 retail trade sales surprise
	Posted by | trade
	Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) have reported retail trade sales registering an 8.3 percent year-on-year increase in December 2010. The highest annual growth rate was recorded for retailers in pharmaceutical and medical goods, cosmetics and toiletries, followed by retailers in household furniture, appliances and equipment.

05-DEC-10·	South Africa taking part in Gulf-Africa Forum
	Posted by | trade
	A South African delegation lead by Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim, and including Minister of Economic Development Ebrahim Patel, is in Saudi Arabia, attending the 2010 Gulf-Africa Investment Forum. Hosted by the Gulf Research Centre and the Council of Saudi Chambers, the forum theme: Fostering Economic Relations, concentrates on furthering economic relations and investment between the Gulf and Sub-Saharan African states.

03-DEC-10·	United Kingdom commits to double trade with SA
	Posted by | trade
	During President Jacob Zuma's visit to the UK earlier this year, a trade goal was agreed to to improve economic ties and to double trade volume between our countries by 2015. To progress cooperative relations British Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham met International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim this week in Pretoria.

28-NOV-10·	SA and Kenya sign agreements on tourism, trade, and higher education
	Posted by | trade
	Kenya and South Africa have signed agreements on a range of mutual issues, including higher education, tourism, trade and agriculture. These include the waiving of double taxation for businesses operating in the two countries, and a Memorandum of Understanding on agricultural cooperation. The agreements prepare the ground for improving commercial relations prior to President Jacob Zuma's planned 2011 visit.

22-OCT-10·	Motlanthe concludes SA-Syria economic and trade agreement
	Posted by | trade
	Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe has concluded a two-day working visit to the Syrian Arab Republic. The visit strengthened existing relations and and an agreements on economic and trade cooperation was signed. In addition, a protocol for cooperation has paved the way for exploration of cooperation in education, and a number of other area. For further details, click

19-AUG-10·	SADC pushes towards Customs Union
	Posted by | trade
	The 30th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) closed on 17 August 2010 with an affirmation to consolidate timelines for the establishment of the Free Trade Area (FTA) and speeding up preparations towards a Customs Union.

06-AUG-10·	Zuma - Russian visit will grow trade relations
	Posted by | trade
	Visiting Russia with more than 100 business people and at least 11 Cabinet ministers, President Zuma is encouraged by the growth in overall trade between the two countries. For details

13-JUL-10·	Nkoana-Mashabane travels to Russia
	Posted by | trade
	International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane will on Tuesday arrive in Russia for her official visit that is expected to further strengthen bilateral, political and economic relations between the two countries.

10-JUL-10·	SA Brazil Strategic Partnership Agreement includes education and skills development
	Posted by | trade
	SA and Brazil have also agreed to deepen cooperation in areas such as: trade and industry, science and technology, agriculture and rural development, arts and culture, defence, education and skills development, health, sport and recreation, tourism, water and environmental affairs.

09-JUL-10·	Bilateral trade, political and economic discussions with Brazilian President
	Posted by | trade
	President Jacob Zuma will hold bilateral political, economic and trade discussions with his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who is is in the country for a state visit as well as to attend the FIFA World Cup.

08-JUL-10·	Chinese companies urged to invest in SA mining
	Posted by | trade
	Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies is calling on Chinese companies to invest in South African mining. Davies was speaking at China-South Africa Business Seminar in Shanghai, where he called on companies to invest in mining beneficiation, capital equipment and metal sectors.

28-JUN-10·	World leaders aim to cut deficits
	Posted by | trade
	Leaders of the world's biggest countries have pledged to halve budget deficits by 2013 and stabilise or reduce government debt by 2016.

25-JUN-10·	Zuma in Canada for G20 summit
	Posted by | trade
	President Jacob Zuma and Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan are in Canada for the G20 summit that will look at the state of the world’s economic affairs.

17-JUN-10·	Retail trade sales increase in April
	Posted by | trade
	Retail trade sales in April increased by 3.2 percent year-on-year - Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). Nedbank economist Isaac matshego expects that: "Retail sales are likely to continue expanding during the remainder of this year as consumer spending improves further".

03-JUN-10·	SA eyes stronger ties with India
	Posted by | trade
	India has a market of 1.1 billion people, and has had a “phenomenal growth story” which local business should take advantage of says Dawie Roodt, an economist with the Efficient Group. President Zuma is leading a trade delegation looking into this “vast untapped” potential for trade between the two countries.

02-JUN-10·	Zuma arrives for State Visit in India
	Posted by | trade
	President Jacob Zuma has arrived in India for talks with his counterparts aimed at strengthening and broadening commercial interactions between the two nations. Accompanied by first lady Nompumelelo Zuma and a business delegation, the president touched down at the Chatrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai, ahead of his state visit.

12-MAR-10·	UK holds SA in ‘high regard’ - Gordhan
	Posted by | trade
	The UK business community holds South Africa in high regard, both as an investment destination and as a springboard into the rest of Africa, said Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan.

15-JAN-10·	Carbon Tax seminar keeps Copenhagen COP 15 top of mind
	Posted by | trade
	The Minerals and Energy Education and Training Institute (MEETI) starts the year by hosting a seminar on Carbon Taxing versus Cap & Trade. This is done with the view of keeping the Copenhagen COP 15 affair alive for South African stakeholders when the media hype seems to have abated.

18-NOV-09·	Certificate in Financial Markets
	Posted by | trade
	The Certificate in Financial Markets is aimed at persons with a keen interest in financial markets, but who have little or no experience. Upon completion of the Certificate the student will be able to qualify as a Registered Person, in accordance with the requirements of the South African Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM).

14-OCT-09·	South Africa, a hot spot for global investors
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa has been identified as one of the key markets for global investors, moving up to 4th position. This is according to new research that has been published by the British government's investment agency, UK Trade & Investment.

14-OCT-09·	Retail trade figures continue falling
	Posted by | trade
	Retail trade sales in South Africa continued falling in August 2009 compared to the same time last year, Statistics South Africa has reported. Retail trade sales for August 2009 reflected a decrease of 7.0 percent, compared with August 2008. Retail trade sales for July also showed a decrease of 3.9 percent, compared with the same period last year.

08-OCT-09·	Zuma looking to improve ties with Brazil
	Posted by | trade
	President Jacob Zuma has arrived in Brazil for his first official state visit to the Latin American country. The President is expected to, among other things, exchange ideas on combating social challenges such as poverty, unemployment, human settlement challenge, with his counterpart, President Lula da Silva.

18-AUG-09·	Excitement mounts as QCTO policy firms
	Posted by | trade
	For the first time, business can look forward to demand-led education that is responsive and tailored to the needs of the economy. When it eventually gets off the ground, the QCTO will dramatically change the lives of all skills and organisational development professionals, writes Jim Freeman.

20-JUL-09·	When can a trade union demand recognition?
	Posted by | trade
	A trade union will be successful in gaining recognition at your workplace if it can prove to you or to the CCMA that it has sufficient representation amongst your employees. The question is, what constitutes sufficient representation?

11-MAR-09·	Buckle up - the economic ride is rough
	Posted by | trade
	Consumer watchdog, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) as part of the Consumer Protection Forum which comprises of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), nine Provincial Consumer Affairs Directorates, Financial Services Board (FSB), the Council for Medical Aid Schemes, Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and other regulators, has embarked on a campaign to educate consumers about their rights, where to get recourse and what steps to take in order to enforce these rights as part of celebrating consumer rights month during March.

19-FEB-09·	Retail trade sales drop by 0.1 percent
	Posted by | trade
	Retail trade figures for December 2008 have dropped by 0.1 percent compared to the same period in 2007, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reported on Wednesday.

29-JAN-09·	International investment call centre to be launched
	Posted by | trade
	The Department of Trade and Industry has announced that it will establish an Investment Call Centre. The call centre will form part of the department’s one-stop shop service aimed at reducing administrative and regulatory barriers, and facilitating smooth entry into South Africa for foreign investors.

17-DEC-08·	South Africa, South Korea venture set to boost vocational training
	Posted by | trade
	The government's intensified drive to place artisan development as the vital cog of economic growth strategy Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa (AsgiSA) was last night further boosted when South Africa and South Korea committed to exchanging further expertise on empowering trade assessors.

10-DEC-08·	SA, Nigeria fast track trade and economic relations
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and Nigeria have committed to fast track trade and economic relations between both countries at the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission (BNC).“We will need to seriously consider in our meeting here a concrete and costed plan of action with deliverables, as this will give body and soul to the work of our BNC,” said Deputy President Baleka Mbete.

12-NOV-08·	Finance, construction lead SA’s service sector
	Posted by | trade
	The finance and construction industries have been identified as the most significant contributors to growth in South Africa's services sector. Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies, said in South Africa, service sectors contributed 74 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and 72 percent of employment.

06-NOV-08·	DTI to host 2008 Technology Awards
	Posted by | trade
	Individuals and organisations who have consistently advanced and promoted technology in South Africa are to be recognised at the 2008 Technology Awards. The purpose of the awards is to alert the general public, and specifically the youth, entrepreneurs, and business community, to the benefits of using technology to improve the competitiveness of enterprises, within the local and global arena.

05-NOV-08·	COSATU on the Obama victory
	Posted by | trade
	The Congress of South African Trade Unions congratulates Barrack Obama on his historic victory in the USA Presidential election. It is an exceptional achievement for an African-American candidate to be voted into the highest office in the land by an electorate dominated by the descendents of those whose forefathers enslaved and disenfranchised black Americans.

31-OCT-08·	SA will weather the economic storm - DG
	Posted by | trade
	He was speaking at the 2nd Annual South African Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition which aims to promote the country’s image abroad and market its growing economy to the rest of the world. He said the financial meltdown that had occurred in the financial markets had led to a fundamental change in the landscape.

29-OCT-08·	Trade industry generates highest number of jobs
	Posted by | trade
	Employment in this sector rose from 3.1 million between April and June 2008, to 3.17 million between July and September 2008. The number of South Africans employed in the trade industry increased by 71 000, while most other industries showed a downward trend.

28-OCT-08·	Africa’s industrialisation key to achieving MDGs
	Posted by | trade
	Through accelerated industrialisation and the strategic use of the international demand for natural resources, Africa will be able to attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

24-OCT-08·	Time frame set for establishing Africa’s biggest free market
	Posted by | trade
	This week’s Tripartite Summit held in Uganda agreed on a Council of Ministers to be convened within twelve months to determine the time frame for the establishment of a single Free Trade Area (FTA) comprising the three Regional Economic Communities (RECs), writes Bathandwa Mbola.

20-OCT-08·	SA to showcase trade, investment advantages
	Posted by | trade
	The South African International Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition 2008 will bring together local and foreign business people as it showcases the advantages of doing business on the southern tip of Africa. The Department of Trade and Industry, along with the country's provincial investment promotion agencies, are hosting the event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 30 and 31 October, reports SouthAfrica.info.

20-OCT-08·	Swedish minister to visit SA to advance trade relations
	Posted by | trade
	Sweden's Minister for Trade Ewa Björling is set to visit South Africa this week where she is expected to participate in a seminar on green trade relations. The two-day visit, is the first Swedish ministerial visit to South Africa since the centre-right coalition government took office in 2006.

20-OCT-08·	SA must communicate its economic achievements
	Posted by | trade
	The International Investment Council (IIC) has said South Africa must actively communicate its economic achievements and its potential to the global investor community.

20-OCT-08·	Declaration of the alliance economic summit
	Posted by | trade
	The Alliance Economic Summit met on the 17th and 18th October. The focus of our Summit was to consolidate the economic policy perspectives that will inform our common election manifesto as we move towards an ANC-led election campaign in the coming months. The ANC government, with a renewed popular mandate, must be able to hit the ground running after next year's elections.

23-SEP-08·	SA, Kenya seek to address import, export deficit
	Posted by | trade
	Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mphalwa told business leaders from South Africa and Kenya that strengthening bilateral relations will focus on reducing the import – export deficit that currently exists. Mphalwa said that Kenya is a strategic trading partner within the East African region due to its geo-political importance.

17-SEP-08·	Manpower Employment Outlook Survey
	Posted by | trade
	Reveals Continued Weaker Job Prospects in the 4th Quarter of 2008 for Most Industry Sectors and Regions Within South Africa (Johannesburg, 09 September 2008) – Employers in most sectors of the South African labour market continue to be less optimistic about hiring permanent staff in the fourth quarter.

17-SEP-08·	Defence Minister inspects new Hawk and Gripen craft
	Posted by | trade
	The Hawk advanced jet trainer and Gripen fighter aircraft, the South African Defence Force’s two new additions, were put on display and inspected by the Minister of Defence Mosiuoa Lekota.

17-SEP-08·	EPWP succeeding in achieving its target
	Posted by | trade
	The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is succeeding in achieving its target of providing one million job opportunities within five years of its introduction, as well as getting funding from government departments.

08-SEP-08·	SA making progress in providing ICT to rural areas - Mbeki
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa has made some progress regarding the provision of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to South Africans, especially those in rural areas, says President Thabo Mbeki.

03-SEP-08·	PetroSA must begin exploiting Venezuelan oil reserves
	Posted by | trade
	Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says the Petroleum, Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (PetroSA) should begin exploiting his country’s oil reserves, which are the largest in the world.

29-AUG-08·	Rural Mpuma women open 2010 guesthouse
	Posted by | trade
	A group of 11 rural women are using South Africa’s hosting of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup as an opportunity to make money by opening a R4.5 million guesthouse.

28-AUG-08·	SA Tourism campaign spread wings to Mozambique, Botswana
	Posted by | trade
	The Sho’t Left Campaign, which encourages South Africa’s to travel the length and breadth of their country, is to target up-and-coming youngsters from South Africa as well as Botswana and Mozambique.

28-AUG-08·	National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Bill passed in National Assembly
	Posted by | trade
	The National Assembly passed the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Bill on 19 August and it will become law later this year.

18-AUG-08·	SADC Free Trade Area to bolster regional economic integration
	Posted by | trade
	The Southern African Free Trade Area (FTA), will not only transform the trading environment in the region, but marks an important milestone in the road towards regional economic integration, writes Bathandwa Mbola.

31-JUL-08·	Funding available for capacity building
	Posted by | trade
	At the recent roadshows to raise awareness of the requirements for Employment Equity compliance the issue of funding was raised. Department of Labour representatives announced that the Department had funding available for unions or union federations who wanted to hold training to empower their officials and shop stewards.

15-JUL-08·	COMESA, SADC, EAC to discuss harmonisation of trade
	Posted by | trade
	The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) will convene a tripartite meeting in October to discuss the harmonisation of trade in the region.

15-JUL-08·	SA delegation to attract investment in the US
	Posted by | trade
	The delegation, under the leadership of Trade and Industry Deputy Director-General Igbal Sharma together with the International Marketing Council of South Africa, will leave for the US on 21 July.

09-JUL-08·	G8 united to fulfil their pledge to Africa
	Posted by | trade
	The G8 said in a communiqué on Development and Africa, that it was firmly committed to working towards fulfilling the commitments it had made on official development assistance made at Gleneagles and reaffirmed at last year’s summit in Heiligendamm, Germany.

07-JUL-08·	UK to increase trade to Africa to $750m by 2010
	Posted by | trade
	The United Kingdom will be spending some $ 750 million in Africa by 2010, through its "Aid for Trade" strategy forming part of the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs). This is according to the UK Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Consumer Affairs, Gareth Thomas.

17-JUN-08·	The move towards single device personal computing
	Posted by | trade
	Judging by the latest advancements in the production of mobile & wireless hardware and the increased level of functionality, it is clear that manufacturers targeting the global mobile and wireless market are moving rapidly towards the launch of all-in-one devices.

09-JUN-08·	Local tourism industry wins some and loses some
	Posted by | trade
	An increase of yet another 50 cents per litre of unleaded petrol has affected industries across South Africa. Tourism, which accounted for 8,3% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2007 and which continues to be recognised by the government as one of South Africa's key growth areas, is faced with the challenge of increased fuel and food prices.

03-JUN-08·	Broadband project to raise Gauteng’s GDP, connectivity
	Posted by | trade
	A provincial broadband connectivity programme, which will place the information of the world at the fingertips of Gauteng residents, will raise the province’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to double digit figures, writes Michael Appel.

27-MAY-08·	Integr8 IT aligned to Consumer Protection Bill
	Posted by | trade
	The Bill governs all aspects of consumer relations and legally introduces the concept of ‘strict liability’. This will certainly influence the way information & communication technology products/ goods are sold and distributed.

19-MAY-08·	The skill factor behind effective ICT recruitment
	Posted by | trade
	Whilst the level of trade in many sectors is being heavily influenced by factors such as higher interest rates, currency value fluctuation and load shedding, the ICT industry is ideally suited to empower and add value. So claims Robert Sussman, joint managing director at Integr8 IT, South Africa’s largest privately owned national BEE ICT network integration and infrastructure management specialist.

13-MAY-08·	Feature: IBSA strengthens its commitment to democracy
	Posted by | trade
	The “strategic alliance” that is the India-Brazil-South Africa trilateral axis is now more than simply a dialogue but a “privileged relationship” favouring a world where democracy will prevail not only in its political manifestation but also on social and cultural levels, writes Shaun Benton.

11-APR-08·	COSATU opposes interest rate hike
	Posted by | trade
	The Congress of South African Trade Unions is appalled that the South African Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has announced that it will raise the repo rate by yet another 50 basis points, bringing the rate at which it lends to banks to 11.5%. Within minutes some banks announced that their prime overdraft rates will rise by 0.5% to 15% from the current 14.5%.

01-APR-08·	Cape Town tourism industry maintains first-class standards
	Posted by | trade
	Tourism in the Cape is a rich experience and is a huge contributor to the country's overall economic growth. As visitors from many European countries will know, it's with warm hospitality that they are greeted in South Africa.

31-MAR-08·	Entrepreneurial gem inspired by his grandfather
	Posted by | trade
	Ajay Lalloo, inspired by his grandfather’s disability, exploited a gap in the cell phone market some 12 years ago to become one of South Africa's true entrepreneurial gems, writes Michael Appel.

28-MAR-08·	Programme puts SA business on the road to success
	Posted by | trade
	Entrepreneurs who graduated from the International Trade Management (ITM) Programme are to become emerging South African businessmen and women with the necessary skills to grow, develop and establish companies that are locally and internationally competitive.

17-MAR-08·	Property group invests millions in agent training
	Posted by | trade
	Over the next three years the Pam Golding Property group will invest in excess of R30 million in training all its agents. The aim is to ensure that they are fully compliant with the requirements of the new national curriculum for education and training and meet the growing demands of an increasingly demanding and sophisticated marketplace, according to CE Dr Andrew Golding.

28-FEB-08·	Sarkozy’s visit to yield SA-France agreements
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa is looking forward to signing a number of bilateral agreements with France during a state visit by French President Nicolas Sarkozy this week.

27-FEB-08·	Africa’s international arrivals up 44 million
	Posted by | trade
	International arrivals to African totalled 846 million in 2006, representing an additional 44 million arrivals over the preceding year with the same growth imminent for 2007

18-FEB-08·	Fund to empower women entrepreneurs
	Posted by | trade
	The Department of Trade and Industry and Old Mutual have launched a fund which will accelerate women’s economic empowerment by providing more affordable, usable and responsive finance solutions. Isivande Women’s Fund (IWF) targets black women at the bottom of the economic ladder who are currently running their own enterprises.

15-FEB-08·	Millions for construction training
	Posted by | trade
	The Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) plans to spend at least R70 million this year on education and training in the construction sector

13-FEB-08·	Govt to be more pro-active on anti-competitive behaviour
	Posted by | trade
	Government aims to strengthen competition legislation this year with the intention of becoming more “proactive” around anti-competitive outcomes and behaviour

13-FEB-08·	SA - India agreement to boost trade in agriculture
	Posted by | trade
	The South Africa and Indian government have approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural cooperation.

07-FEB-08·	SA – Egypt strengthens economic and trade relations
	Posted by | trade
	Foreign Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma will depart from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to Cairo, Egypt

21-JAN-08·	World Economic Forum Chair highlights Africa
	Posted by | trade
	Ahead of the annual World Economic Forum meeting, the current WEF chair has highlighted Africa’s development as among the issues to be addressed at the five day event

17-JAN-08·	Business, trade tops SA, Ireland discussions
	Posted by | trade
	One of the main purposes of the Irish trade mission to South Africa was to continue strengthening relationships in business and trade, says Irish Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Michael Martin

16-JAN-08·	Feature: Irish-SA partnership going strong
	Posted by | trade
	Following talks between a South African delegation consisting of President Thabo Mbeki and Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka amongst others, and Mr Ahern’s delegation, both parties agreed that they would be taking their relationship to the next level

08-JAN-08·	SA, China celebrate ten years of relations
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and China, who are celebrating ten years of diplomatic relations, have pledged to further strengthen their relations through the establishment of a strategic dialogue mechanism

10-DEC-07·	Restraint of Trade: The Battle to Retain Skills
	Posted by | trade
	It is in a company’s best interests to prioritise proactive staff retention, rather than concentrating efforts exclusively on creating barriers to exit for employees who wish to leave.

10-DEC-07·	“Invest in SA” advert goes global
	Posted by | trade
	A television advert inviting global business people to invest in South Africa is currently being aired on the world-wide television networks, including CNN.

10-DEC-07·	African leaders refuse to accept EU’s trade deal
	Posted by | trade
	Most African leaders have stood together at the 2nd European Union (EU)-Africa Summit and refused to accept the EU´s proposed Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) signing instead interim trade agreements

06-DEC-07·	Gauteng to receive 55% of intl arrivals
	Posted by | trade
	Gauteng is on track to increase its share of the tourism market to 55 percent of international arrivals, create work opportunities and foster economic growth

30-NOV-07·	Innovation central to Africa’s Renaissance
	Posted by | trade
	Technology and innovation is imperative to the success of initiatives aimed at reconstruction and development within Africa. Socio-economic programs, such as the state-backed New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD), have some degree of dependence on connectivity and infrastructure.

27-NOV-07·	Africa to invest on integrated railway system
	Posted by | trade
	Africa must take its rightful place in the international trade sector by investing on integrated rail systems which will boost socio-economic development on the continent.

27-NOV-07·	Electricity 'master plan' for SA
	Posted by | trade
	With electricity supply in South Africa continuing to be tight as strong economic growth keeps up the pressure on demand, Cabinet has mandated four ministries to develop a Electricity Master Plan for the country, writes Shaun Benton.

22-NOV-07·	EU to open its market to East, Southern Africa
	Posted by | trade
	The European Union (EU) will open up its market on a duty-free basis for products from countries in the Eastern and Southern African (ESA) region from 1 January 2008.

20-NOV-07·	SA, Japan to promote energy conservation
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will see the two countries working together to promote energy conservation

12-NOV-07·	Task team to improve SA - Cuba trade
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and Cuba are to establish a task team to improve the trade relations between the two countries

08-NOV-07·	Steel import tariffs removed to boost competitiveness
	Posted by | trade
	Tariffs on imported steel have been removed in a bid by government to make steel cheaper for users, writes Shaun Benton.

08-NOV-07·	Workplace safety training for KZN union reps
	Posted by | trade
	The Department of Labour is to train 50 union representatives on health and safety issues in KwaZulu-Natal by the end of November, in a bid to curb workplace fatalities.

01-NOV-07·	South African businesses support another triumph on British soil
	Posted by | trade
	For the first time, South Africa is to showcase its products and services in a major trade exhibition to be held in London in March 2008. Seen as the opportunity to secure foreign investment in Southern Africa, the exhibition promises to be a `must' for a multitude of businesses from the region.

01-NOV-07·	Investing in SA to propel Africa’s growth
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa has been showcased as a safe investment destination and a spring board for future growth in other African countries. This emerged from the South African International Trade and Investment Conference which ended in Durban this week.

30-OCT-07·	SA tourism shows huge growth potential
	Posted by | trade
	The South African tourism industry which currently contributes R95 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product, is showing more potential for growth having grown six percent in the early in the last seven years. This is according to experts speaking on investment in tourism in the country at the Trade and Investment South Africa Conference which is currently underway in Durban’s International Convention Centre.

29-OCT-07·	Standard Bank partners with world’s largest bank
	Posted by | trade
	Standard Bank has announced a major partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC). ICBC is the world’s largest bank by market capitalisation and will become a 20 percent shareholder in Standard Bank Group according to the deal, according to a Standard Bank press statement.

26-OCT-07·	Black entrepreneurs awarded for success
	Posted by | trade
	Successful black entrepreneurs are to be given the recognition they deserve at the Black Business Supplier Development Programme (BBSP) awards in Mpumalanga on Friday. The Department of Trade and Industry introduced the awards in 2002 to recognise entrepreneurs who have excelled in business and to help fast-track the entry of small medium and micro enterprises (SMME) into the mainstream economy.

24-OCT-07·	Trade, Investment conference to promote SA
	Posted by | trade
	The upcoming South African International Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition will showcase the advantages of doing business in the country. The Department of Trade and Industry, along with Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) are to host the event at the International Convention Centre, Durban.

22-OCT-07·	Education is key to implementing Credit Act
	Posted by | trade
	The NCA requires credit bureaus to remove information on a number of small debts (below R500) and paid up judgments. All credit bureaus must also be registered with the National Credit Regulator and will have to follow the steps clearly laid out by the NCA, which sets out how consumer information can be used.

22-OCT-07·	IBSA leaders committed to uplifting poor countries
	Posted by | trade
	The second summit for the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) dialogue forum has resulted in renewed commitment from the three states towards helping poor and developing countries around the world, writes Sholain Govender.

18-OCT-07·	IBSA to increase trade to US$15 billion
	Posted by | trade
	– India, Brazil and South Africa have committed to increasing trade amongst themselves to US$ 15 billion by 2010. In addition, the leaders of the three countries have urged business and industry players to be more ambitious and to exceed that target.

15-OCT-07·	Australian airline to extend co-op with SAA
	Posted by | trade
	Australian airline Qantas Airways Ltd has applied to extend its code-sharing agreement with South Africa Airways on flights from Australia to the African nation.Qantas, which has had code-sharring arrangements with SAA since 2000, is seeking authorisation for a three-year agreement from Australia's International Air Services Commission (IASC).

15-OCT-07·	SA preps to host second IBSA Summit
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa will be hosting the second India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Heads of State summit this week, where several agreements on cooperation in strategic areas will be signed.

08-OCT-07·	Economists outline SA trade policy options
	Posted by | trade
	Economists at the Trade Law Centre for Southern Africa have recommended that India reduce its tariffs on gold imported from South Africa. This is outlined in a new ,book entitled “South Africa's Way Ahead: Trade Policy Options.”

05-OCT-07·	Deputy President opens SA-Sweden BNC
	Posted by | trade
	Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has opened the fifth session of the South Africa - Sweden Bi-National Commission. Addressing the event in Stockholm Wednesday, the Deputy President committed South Africa to “continue consolidating people-to-people relations between South Africa and Sweden.”

05-OCT-07·	Fund set to assist female entrepreneurs
	Posted by | trade
	More affordable, usable and responsive finance solutions will soon be made available to emerging entrepreneurs and businesswomen, as part of the establishment of the Women Entrepreneurs Fund.

02-OCT-07·	IBSA summit to further strengthen trade ties
	Posted by | trade
	The second annual India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) summit could result in the trilateral initiative achieving their trade target of $10-billion within the next few years. Events leading up to the summit, to be held at the Presidential Guesthouse on 17 October, will provide a platform for the formation of trilateral business partnerships aimed at enhancing existing trade between the three members states.

27-SEP-07·	Reciprocal development central to SA-China bond
	Posted by | trade
	The relationship between the continental powerhouses, South Africa and China is one of mutual development, in contrast to one of political or industrial colonisation, writes Lavinia Mahlangu.

14-JUN-07·	SA, Slovakia sign pact for ministerial co-operation
	Posted by | trade
	South Africa and Slovakia have signed a co-operation agreement to boost interaction between the countries at ministerial level. Foreign Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma signed the agreement with her Slovak counterpart Foreign Minister Jan Kubis in Bratislava.

02-MAY-07·	China plans $100 billion in trade with Africa by 2010
	Posted by | trade
	The Chinese government has pledged to continue working with African governments in order to grow and sustain trade between individual African countries and itself. China hopes to increase trade with Africa to over $100 billion (approx R702 billion) by the year 2010.

18-APR-07·	Singapore president’s visit to revitalise ties with SA
	Posted by | trade
	Singaporean President Sellapan Ramanathan’s upcoming visit to South Africa, marks a clear resurgence of interest in bilateral relations between the two nations. This is a historic occasion, as it will be the first state visit to South Africa, by a Singaporean head of state. President Mbeki’s delegation will include Ministers Mosioua Lekota (defence), Membathisi Mdladlana (labour), Ronnie Kasrils (intelligence).

19-MAR-07·	SA-Russia talks to highlight Economy and Security Council
	Posted by | trade
	Economic trade as well as cooperation in the United Nations Security Council will be high on the agenda of a meeting between two top office bearers of South Africa and Russia's governments. South African Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka hosts her Russian counterpart Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov on an official visit to South Africa.

06-DEC-06·	SA, Canada to strengthen relations
	Posted by | trade
	Strengthening of political and economic relations between South Africa and Canada will come under the spotlight when President Thabo Mbeki meets Canadian Governor-General Michaëlle Jean.

22-NOV-06·	SA, Namibia consolidate economic relations
	Posted by | trade
	President Thabo Mbeki is paying a working visit to the Namibian capital Windhoek to discuss the consolidation of economic relations between the countries. He will be co-chairing the sixth session of the SA-Namibia Heads of State Economic Bilateral Forum with his Namibian counterpart Hifikepunye Pohamba, scheduled for later in the day.

20-SEP-06·	SA cements ties in developing world & international arena
	Posted by | trade
	The month of September sees South Africa cementing its cooperation with its counterparts in the developing world and in the international arena, through key multilateral engagements including the 61st session of the UN General Assembly and the 14th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement.

20-SEP-06·	SA, India, Brazil sign agreements to promote trade, cooperation
	Posted by | trade
	Speaking at the inaugural IBSA Heads of State and Government Summit in Brazil, President Thabo Mbeki highlighted the importance of new agreements between India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA), which will stimulate economic growth and promote cooperation on global issues.

12-JUL-06·	Trade unions and employer bodies de-registered
	Posted by | trade
	Bogus trade unions and employer organisations official records at the Department of Labour show that many unions and employer organisations are not in good standing as far as registration procedures and legal requirements expected from bona fide organisations are concerned.

05-JUL-06·	Can unions be sued for the actions of their members?
	Posted by | trade
	The security guards strike may be over but the court cases are just beginning. But are unions liable for violence and damage to property that occurs during their marches, and what happens if the union cannot afford to pay damages? These issues were discussed at a seminar run by the SA Society for Labour Law (Saslaw) in the Western Cape.

14-SEP-05·	Skills vital for economic growth - Mpahlwa
	Posted by | trade
	A shortage of skills remains one of the key hindrances to South Africa's ability to reach a higher economic growth rate, says Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa.

06-MAR-05·	Telkom places moratorium on retrenchments
	Posted by | trade
	Telkom has told the Portfolio Committee on Communications that it will impose a moratorium on retrenchments, a move that could bring relief to thousands of the parastatal's employees.

06-MAR-05·	Zuma says unemployment is challenge
	Posted by | trade
	Deputy President Jacob Zuma says unemployment is still a major challenge for South Africa and government needs to continue vigorously focusing on it.

13-FEB-05·	Telkom unions endorse headcount strategy
	Posted by | trade
	The Communication Workers Union has signed a headcount management agreement with Telkom, enabling the company to offer enhanced voluntary severance packages to all staff.

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