By Sbongile Sokela
In a bold move to boost township economies and elevate small businesses onto the global stage, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi will lead a high level delegation to China’s Hunan Province this June. The visit marks a pivotal step in unlocking international trade opportunities for South Africa’s small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), especially those rooted in Gauteng’s informal economy.
Announced during his quarterly media briefing on May 22, Premier Lesufi described the mission as a transformative economic push. “We are creating real global pathways for our township entrepreneurs,” he said. “This partnership will open up massive export opportunities for uniquely South African products like moringa, biltong, rooibos tea, honey, and wine.”
The upcoming trade agreement with Hunan, home to over 66 million people, will offer Gauteng’s SMMEs a fast track into a booming market, with fewer restrictions and expanded access.
The timing couldn’t be better. Hunan’s trade with Africa is surging, reaching 8.65 billion yuan (about 1.2 billion USD) in just the first four months of 2025. South Africa now leads as Hunan’s top African trade partner, making Gauteng’s presence in the province even more strategic.
While Hunan continues to export electric vehicles, solar panels and lithium-ion batteries to Africa in record volumes, China’s zero tariff policy for 33 least developed African nations, rolled out in December 2024, is fueling a surge in African exports too. Imports into Hunan from these countries have grown by 27.1 %, creating fertile ground for South African goods.
Premier Lesufi called the deal a “game changer” for small businesses. “These enterprises are the heartbeat of our economy, they create jobs and foster innovation. Our goal is to ensure they grow beyond our borders.”
This international venture aligns with Gauteng’s broader vision, turning local talent into global trade players and shifting township economies from survival mode to success stories.
With global doors opening, Gauteng’s entrepreneurs are being handed a rare opportunity to turn local hustle into international enterprise.
