Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi met with Chinese provincial leader Ge Huijun on November 6, 2025, signing an agreement to boost ties between their regions. The accord establishes collaboration in agricultural development, manufacturing investment, educational programs, cultural initiatives and automotive production sectors.
This partnership builds upon enhanced diplomatic relations between South Africa and China, formalized last year. Shandong represents one of China's primary industrial centers while Gauteng drives South Africa's economy. Trade between South Africa and Shandong reached 2.63 billion dollars during 2023, making South Africa the Chinese province's third most significant African commercial partner.
Lesufi described the arrangement as advancing economic revitalization and international engagement. Officials anticipate the agreement will generate employment, expand market access for local businesses and attract substantial investment. The initiative aligns with Lesufi's strategy to transform Gauteng into a globally competitive hub, emphasizing innovation, youth involvement and industrial expansion while strengthening connections between African and Asian markets.
This partnership builds upon enhanced diplomatic relations between South Africa and China, formalized last year. Shandong represents one of China's primary industrial centers while Gauteng drives South Africa's economy. Trade between South Africa and Shandong reached 2.63 billion dollars during 2023, making South Africa the Chinese province's third most significant African commercial partner.
Lesufi described the arrangement as advancing economic revitalization and international engagement. Officials anticipate the agreement will generate employment, expand market access for local businesses and attract substantial investment. The initiative aligns with Lesufi's strategy to transform Gauteng into a globally competitive hub, emphasizing innovation, youth involvement and industrial expansion while strengthening connections between African and Asian markets.
