“A large portion of bilateral trade volume is due to increased import of food products from South Africa to Qatar. I do believe that Qatar sees Africa as an important trading partner and South African in particular. We do see an increase in the trade volume between the countries,” Faizel Moosa told The Peninsula in an interview.
South Africa exports fresh fruit and vegetables, agro-processed food products and other items to Qatar. At present, South Africa is seeking to introduce meat and livestock products in Qatari markets as well as opening a meat processing facility here.
Also, South Africa is seeking Qatari investments in the oil and gas sector and expecting a prominent representation by Qatar at the upcoming International Investor Conference of the South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg in October, according to Moosa.
Taking an important step in enhancing the bilateral relationship in trade, business and other areas, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to visit Qatar soon.