Despite not being a member of BRICS, Japan is one of South Africa's closest allies on many fronts. The pair want to expand the relationship when it comes to trade and investment, an official meeting in Pretoria this week confirmed.
Here International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola held bilateral talks with Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.
Commenting on the talks, Lamola said, “This year marks 116 years of relations between South Africa and Japan. During this period, our cooperation has expanded significantly in a variety of areas.”
As well as increasing trade and investment cooperation with Japan, the South African government plans to place a significant focus on diversifying exports as well as exploring new industries for cooperation, including energy and defence.
“South Africa continues to prioritize the diversification of trade and investment partnerships, with Asia being a key region. We see strong potential to increase access for South African agro-processing and agricultural products to the Japanese and wider Asian markets,” Lamola said.
Earlier this year, South Africa held similar talks with government representatives from China Cooperation within the technology sector Was underlined. So, when it comes to increasing its economic potential, South Africa is certainly turning to Asia.
“Japan remains a major economic partner with significant investment in our economy. We value the confidence shown by Japanese businesses, including Toyota's recent R10.4 billion investment pledge at the sixth South African Investment Conference to support the transition to new energy vehicles,” the minister highlighted.
Japan is in third or fourth place, based on report In the context of the world's largest economies, strengthening ties with it would prove prudent.
He added, “Following a very successful engagement between South African and Japanese companies involved in this industry in September 2025, we are also excited about the prospects of entering into new areas of cooperation such as defense equipment. We are confident that the momentum gained during this engagement will translate into a solid cooperative partnership.”
While it remains to be seen what will emerge from these negotiations, it is clear that SA has looked outside the Global West to secure its geopolitical future.
(Image courtesy) louis martinez But unsplash)
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