Johannesburg: South Africa is working closely with Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia to establish free trade agreements in a move that will propel the nation’s drive to diversify its markets. This was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa following a visit to the region over the past week, signifying a new chapter of robust economic partnership.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa expressed the need to increase trade beyond the current $22-25 billion, with all three countries agreeing on the necessity to boost trade and investment. The focus will be on removing regulatory barriers and establishing a free trade agreement, which South Africa will work on diligently.

The future agreements aim for mutual prosperity through increased trade and investment. South Africa already exports products like coal and agricultural goods to these nations and imports technology and finished goods in return. The goal is to broaden this exchange and establish South Africa as a gateway into the African continent.

The visit to Southeast Asia, amidst global uncertainty, was strategic for deepening ties and expanding trade. The mission aimed to diversify markets and revive old relationships at investment and trade levels. President Ramaphosa stated the visit was a success in achieving these goals.

Beyond economics, the visit highlighted historical bonds linking the nations. The Southeast Asian countries supported the anti-apartheid struggle, and South Africa is home to the descendants of Malaysians and Indonesians brought by the Dutch as forced laborers, known as the Cape Malay.

President Ramaphosa described the trip as an emotional reconnection with the region. Upon concluding the visit, he will embark on a State Visit to Switzerland.