Johannesburg - Government is determined to create an environment that is investor-friendly.
“We will continue to improve support measures both through the special economic zones program and other development tools,” President Jacob said, during an address to the business community at the 2nd Annual South African Turkish Business Association, in Sandton, on Thursday.
President Zuma said he had directed the Department of Trade and Industry to identify areas where South Africa could expand trade further with Turkey for mutual benefit.
“While economic relations between South Africa and Turkey remain good and strong, we still have a lot to do to further exploit the potential for trade and investment between the two countries,” he said.
He said South Africa offered an attractive market for Turkish investors.
Trade between South Africa and Turkey had increased since 2009, from R5 billion to R12.4 billion in 2013.
South Africa had also increased its exports to Turkey, with an annual growth rate of 21 percent between 2009 and 2013.
President Zuma said South Africa offered many opportunities not only for access to a growing domestic market but also as a platform to the dynamically growing markets of the African continent.
“I would like Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON) to partner with our Chambers of commerce in South Africa and promote partnerships and SMME development, technology and skills transfer, joint ventures and the creation of black industrialists.
“I trust that our business people in both countries will exploit the opportunities created by our respective private sector and governments,” President Zuma said.
TUKSON President Rizanur Meral said his organisation was committed to creating, maintaining and building partnerships between businesses in Turkey and South Africa.
“We aim to contribute to the localisation of the manufacturing and production of goods and services, ultimately creating jobs,” Meral said.
He said his organisation had established eight schools in the country, which educate learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura said government’s role was to cut the red tape to encourage people to do business.
He called on the international business community to help transform the country’s economy and build a more inclusive economy. – SAnews.gov.za
