President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa Has called for deeper economic cooperation and expanded trade between South Africa and BrazilTold important to promote partnership Inclusive growth and development across the global south.
speaking in Brazil-South Africa Business Forum in Brasilia During his state visit to Brazil, Ramaphosa said the two countries share similar economic ambitions and face similar challenges Inequality, unemployment and the need for continued economic growth.
were present on stage Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da SilvaSenior government officials and business leaders from both countries.
Emphasis on diversifying trade and exports
President Ramaphosa said the visit provides an opportunity Strengthening bilateral economic ties and rebalancing trade flows By expanding and diversifying South African exports to Brazil.
He said, “This visit provides us with the opportunity to reimagine a world of opportunities aligned with our shared values and vision. As Team South Africa, we are keen to rebalance our trade by increasing and diversifying South African exports to Brazil.”
He stressed the importance of increasing market access through Preferential Trade Agreement between the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and MercosurNoting that expanding the product coverage of the agreement could open up more trade opportunities between the regions.
Key areas for industrial cooperation
Ramaphosa identified several areas where South Africa and Brazil could expand Industrial Cooperation and InvestmentInvolved:
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bio fuel
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protect
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agricultural processing
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aerospace
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energy
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medicines
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advanced manufacturing
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Automotive industry
He said partnerships in these areas should include Technology Transfer, Innovation Collaboration and Skill DevelopmentTo enable both countries to strengthen industrial capacity and competitiveness.
Growing corporate presence in both countries
The President highlighted the presence of many South African companies operating in BrazilInvolved:
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sasol
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mtn
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Naspers
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first national bank
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Aspen Holdings
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grindrod
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Standard Bank
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anglogold turmoil
At the same time, the chief Brazilian companies have established operations in South AfricaInvolved:
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petrobras
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embraer
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marcopolo
These investments demonstrate the growing economic ties between the two economies, Ramaphosa said.
Aviation and manufacturing investment
President welcomed Embraer's Aviation Training Academy at OR Tambo International AirportWhich aims to develop aerospace skills and strengthen South Africa's participation Global Aviation Value Chains.
He also said that the Brazilian bus manufacturer marcopolo have invested in Automotive Manufacturing in GautengWhile industrial engineering firms WEG has set up manufacturing and distribution operations supporting South Africa Mining, Energy and Water Sector.
“The foundation for more trade and investment has been laid,” Ramaphosa said.
Gateway to African and Latin American markets
Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa can serve as Brazil's gateway to the African marketespecially through African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In return, Brazil grants South Africa access Latin American and Caribbean marketsCreating opportunities for businesses on both sides.
He shed light on South Africa Advanced financial system, modern ports and skilled workforce As an advantage for investors seeking access to Africa's growing markets.
Invitation to South Africa Investment Conference
South African leader encourages Brazilian investors to participate South Africa Investment Conferencescheduled for 31 March 2026 in Johannesburg.
“South Africa's door is open and the time has come to invest and grow together,” he said.
Ramaphosa concluded that stronger cooperation between South Africa and Brazil would not only generate Jobs and Economic Growthbut also demonstrate how countries The Global South can shape its own development and prosperity.