Midrand: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will this afternoon host a Business Forum that will bring together business representatives, senior government officials, and economic cluster ministers from both South Africa and Kenya. The event is scheduled to take place at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand and will feature addresses by both President Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto later in the day.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, stated that the Business Forum will focus on deepening economic cooperation, facilitating business partnerships, and exploring strategies for unlocking the full potential of trade and investment between the two countries. Tau noted the importance of trade development and diversification for economic growth and prosperity, emphasizing that export diversification is crucial for balanced economic development and long-term sustainability.

Tau highlighted that South Africa and Kenya are strategically positioned to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) for enhanced trade growth and investments, which could drive continental integration and economic development. Since South Africa's preferential trade launch on 31 January 2024, AFCFTA preferential trade between South Africa and Kenya has shown steady growth, with Kenya emerging as one of South Africa's top trade destinations, alongside Ghana and Egypt.

Total trade between the two countries increased from R9.3 billion in 2016 to R10.5 billion in 2025, with an average growth rate of 3.5% over the period 2016 - 2025. The forum will target strategic sectors such as finance and technology, agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing, and infrastructure development to further bolster trade relations.