SUPPLY CHAIN

Rise in e-commerce activity boosts South Africa’s supply chain sector

By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2025

Deputy President tells Chinese supply chain event that SA is committed to strengthening global supply chains and fostering resilience.

Despite facing ongoing challenges, South Africa’s supply chain sector is experiencing growth fuelled by a surge in e-commerce and advancements in technology. 

SA’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, speaking in China. Photo: SAnews.gov.za

This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking at the opening ceremony of the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing on Wednesday.  

 

“Our business communities have been resilient and adapting through strategies like diversifying suppliers, holding more inventory, and investing in digital transformation,” he told delegates. 

 

Mashatile is in China for a strategic working visit to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance economic cooperation between the two nations.  

 

The Deputy President participated in the CISCE at the invitation of Ren Hongbin, the chairperson of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). The event highlights the latest advancements in supply chain management.  

 

Mashatile said this high-level expo is essential for both countries as it fosters trade, investment, cooperation, innovation and learning within the global supply chain ecosystem. 

 

Committed to strengthening global supply chains 

 

“South Africa is committed to strengthening global supply chains and fostering resilience in the face of challenges. In today’s rapidly changing world, the global supply chain landscape is facing unprecedented challenges, from natural disasters to political upheavals.”  

 

He assured the expo that government has also adopted policies and strategies that are conducive for businesses to thrive.  

 

“We understand the importance of building robust supply chains that can withstand disruptions and ensure the efficient flow of goods and services. 

 

“Our diverse economy and strategic location make us a natural gateway for trade and investment, connecting Africa to the rest of the world.”  

 

The Deputy President described China as an essential partner in South Africa’s economic journey, recognising significant opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth. 

 

“Together, we can leverage our strengths and capabilities to further build supply chains that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also sustainable and resilient. 

 

“The fact that China and South Africa have a strong desire to diversify and expand trade between Africa and China is crucial to our efforts to create a solid supply chain.”  

 

Mashatile said South Africa’s export portfolio to China comprises mainly basic commodities.  

“While the trade volumes confirm South Africa’s natural endowment, the heavy slant towards mineral-based exports belies our advanced infrastructure, our diversified industrial base, and our leading service sectors.”  

 

Showcasing unique SA offerings 

 

The South African government delegation was accompanied by 30 manufacturers and producers of uniquely South African products and services.  

 

These showcase the diversity of South African exports, ranging from ethically sourced and clean cosmetics to durable electro-technical.  

 

“Naturally, our offering would not be complete without the companies that are showcasing the finest of South African clothing, leather and footwear,” the Deputy President said. 

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    Dr Kin Kariisa

    Group CEO - Next Media

    Dr. Kin Kariisa is an extraordinary force at the helm of Next Media Services, a conglomerate encompassing NBS TV, Nile Post, Sanyuka TV, Next Radio, Salam TV, Next Communication, Next Productions, and an array of other influential enterprises. His dynamic role as Chief Executive Officer exemplifies his unwavering commitment to shaping media, business, and community landscapes.
    With an esteemed academic journey, Dr. Kariisa’s accolades include an Honorary PhD in exemplary community service from the United Graduate College inTexas, an MBA from United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya, a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from Huazong University in China, and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Makerere University.
    Dr. Kariisa pursued PhD research in Computer Security and Identity Management at Security of Systems Group, Radboud University in Nijmegen, Netherlands. As a dynamic educator, he has shared his expertise as a lecturer of e-Government and Information Security at both Makerere University and Radboud University.

    Dr Kin did his PhD research in Computer Security and Identity Management at Security of Systems Group, Radbond University in Nigmegen, Netherlands. He previously served as a lecturer of e-Government and Information Security at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda and Radbond University in Netherlands.

    Dr Kin did his postgraduate courses in Strategic Business Management, Strategic Leadership Communication and Strategies for Leading Successful Change Initiatives at Harvard University, Boston USA.

    • Other current and previous roles played by Dr Kin Kariisa:
    • Lecturer of e-Government and Information Security to graduate students at Makerere University, Kampala and Radbond University in the Netherlands
    • Director of Eco Bank Uganda Limited, one of the largest banks in Africa
    • Chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters, an umbrella industry association for all Television, Radio and online broadcasters in Uganda.
    • Chairman of Board of Directors of Nile Hotel International, that owns the leading hotel in Uganda, Kampala Serena Hotel.
    • Chairman of Board of Directors of Soliton Telmec Uganda, the leading telecom company in Optic fibre business managing over 80% of optic fibre in Uganda.