Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, has encouraged businesses across the province to apply for the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (ECEP), an initiative aimed at helping businesses expand into international markets and grow their export potential.
Meyer said applications for the programme are now open, offering practical support to both existing and aspiring exporters to improve their competitiveness, overcome technical barriers to trade and meet global market requirements.
Meyer said growing exports remains one of the most effective ways to create jobs, attract investment and stimulate economic growth.
“Through the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme, we are investing directly in the competitiveness of Western Cape businesses and unlocking new opportunities for them to succeed in international markets,” Meyer said.
The programme offers a range of support measures to help businesses become export-ready and strengthen their competitiveness in global markets.
These include assistance to comply with international standards, certification and regulatory requirements; support to improve products through reformulation, testing, labelling, packaging and registration; support to improve products through reformulation, testing, labelling, packaging and registration; help to improve products through reformulation, testing, labelling, packaging and registration; and help with export compliance requirements, including specialised permits and nutritional analysis.
Businesses may also receive support to access e-commerce platforms, diversify into new export markets, assistance with equipment, machinery and technology that can improve production capacity and export competitiveness; and opportunities to grow exports, reach new customers and contribute to job creation in the Western Cape.
Meyer encouraged businesses with ambitions, whether they are established exporters or entering international markets for the first time, to submit their applications as soon as possible.
"Whether you are already exporting or planning to enter international markets for the first time, the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme can provide the support needed to strengthen your business and unlock new growth opportunities. I encourage qualifying businesses to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to grow their exports and their contribution to the Western Cape economy," the MEC said.
The department has advised applicants to review the programme guidelines, eligibility criteria, exclusions and supporting document requirements before submitting their applications to https://www.westerncape.gov.za/edat/export-competitiveness-enhancement-programme-ecep - SAnews.gov.za
