Ramaphosa Calls for Stronger South Africa–Brazil Trade at Business Forum

President Ramaphosa said the visit offers an opportunity to strengthen bilateral economic ties and rebalance trade flows by expanding and diversifying South African exports to Brazil.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for deeper economic cooperation and expanded trade between South Africa and Brazil, describing the partnership as vital for promoting inclusive growth and development across the Global South.

Speaking at the Brazil–South Africa Business Forum in Brasília during his State Visit to Brazil, Ramaphosa said both countries share similar economic ambitions and face common challenges, including inequality, unemployment and the need for sustained economic growth.

The forum was attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, senior government officials and business leaders from both nations.

Push to Diversify Trade and Exports

President Ramaphosa said the visit offers an opportunity to strengthen bilateral economic ties and rebalance trade flows by expanding and diversifying South African exports to Brazil.

“This visit presents us with an opportunity to re-imagine a world of opportunities anchored by our shared values and vision. As Team South Africa, we are keen to rebalance our trade by growing and diversifying South African exports to Brazil,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of enhancing market access through the Preferential Trade Agreement between the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and MERCOSUR, noting that expanding the agreement’s product coverage could unlock greater trade opportunities between the regions.

Key Sectors for Industrial Cooperation

Ramaphosa identified several sectors where South Africa and Brazil could expand industrial collaboration and investment, including:

• Biofuels

• Defence

• Agro-processing

• Aerospace

• Energy

• Pharmaceuticals

• Advanced manufacturing

• Automotive industry

He said partnerships in these areas should include technology transfer, innovation collaboration and skills development, enabling both countries to strengthen industrial capacity and competitiveness.

Growing Corporate Presence in Both Countries

The President highlighted the presence of several South African companies operating in Brazil, including:

• Sasol

• MTN

• Naspers

• First National Bank

• Aspen Holdings

• Grindrod

• Standard Bank

• AngloGold Ashanti

At the same time, major Brazilian companies have established operations in South Africa, including:

• Petrobras

• Embraer

• Marcopolo

These investments, Ramaphosa said, demonstrate the growing economic linkages between the two economies.

Aviation and Manufacturing Investments

The President welcomed Embraer’s aviation training academy at O. R. Tambo International Airport, which aims to develop aerospace skills and strengthen South Africa’s participation in global aviation value chains.

He also noted that Brazilian bus manufacturer Marcopolo has invested in automotive manufacturing in Gauteng, while industrial engineering firm WEG has established manufacturing and distribution operations supporting South Africa’s mining, energy and water sectors.

“The foundation for greater trade and investment is in place,” Ramaphosa said.

Gateway to African and Latin American Markets

Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa can serve as Brazil’s gateway to the African market, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In return, Brazil offers South Africa access to Latin American and Caribbean markets, creating opportunities for businesses on both sides.

He highlighted South Africa’s advanced financial system, modern ports, and skilled workforce as advantages for investors seeking access to Africa’s growing markets.

Invitation to South Africa Investment Conference

The South African leader encouraged Brazilian investors to participate in the South Africa Investment Conference, scheduled for 31 March 2026 in Johannesburg.

“The door to South Africa is open, and the time to invest and grow together is now,” he said.

Ramaphosa concluded that stronger cooperation between South Africa and Brazil would not only generate jobs and economic growth, but also demonstrate how countries of the Global South can shape their own development and prosperity.