Mashatile Lauded for Japan Visit

MARKET ACCESS: ECONOMIC TIES 'A STRATEGIC MOVE'

- Brian Sokutu

With the global trade environment thrown into turmoil by the Trump administration, experts yesterday lauded as "a strategic move" the three-day working visit to Japan by Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

This follows new US trade policies enforcing increased tariffs, uncertainty over the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) and deteriorating diplomatic relations with South Africa.

Accompanied by Cabinet ministers John Steenhuisen (agriculture), Parks Tau (trade industry and competition), Dr Nobuhle Nkabane (higher education), Gayton McKenzie (sport, arts and culture), deputy ministers Thandi Moraka (international relations and cooperation) and Nomalungelo Gina (science, technology and innovation), Mashatile has been engaging with Japanese business and political leaders.

At the core of Mashatile's visit is the strengthening economic relations in manufacturing, machinery, energy cooperation, the automotive industry, mining and mineral beneficiation – creating greater market access for South Africa's products.