President Cyril Ramaphosa has undertaken an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 12-13 January to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ASDW).
The ADSW brings together the Heads of State and Government, the private sector leaders and civil society to promote multi-stakeholder collaboration, drive large-scale systemic change, and shape the next era of global sustainability.
“South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries.
The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.
In 2024, bilateral trade between both countries reached US$5,22 billion,” said the presidency spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.
Magwenya said South Africa’s exports to the UAE totalled US$2,68 billion, reflecting an increase of 5.53% compared to 2023.
Imports from the UAE amounted to US$2.96 billion, representing a decline of 25,8% over the same period.
As a result, South Africa recorded a trade deficit of US$284 million in 2004.
“The strong trade relations underscore the importance of the UAE as a strategic economic partner for South Africa in the middle east and highlights ongoing opportunities to deepen trade and investment cooperation between the two countries,” explained Magwenya.
Ramaphosa, who is accompanied by four ministers, is also expected to engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration.
