US-Africa Trade Commission launch signals new era for investment and trade, says Malope

THE launch of the South Africa Chapter of the US-Africa Trade Commission may have been postponed, but its long-term significance for trade, investment and economic cooperation remains firmly intact, according to incoming Country Director Prof Gostina “Gabbey” Malope.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

The launch, which had been scheduled to take place in Durban yesterday, has been deferred to a later date. However, Malope said the establishment of the South African chapter marks an important milestone in strengthening economic relations between South Africa, the United States and the broader African continent.

In an exclusive interview with Business Report yesterday, Malope said the inauguration was significant not because it marked the appointment of an individual, but because it formally positioned South Africa within a broader framework focused on advancing trade, investment, industrialisation, innovation and sustainable development.

“It formalises South Africa's strategic participation within a broader continental and transatlantic framework dedicated to advancing trade, investment, industrialisation, innovation, and sustainable development,” she said.