SA, India relations should promote small business

Pretoria – Relations between South Africa and India should promote the development of small and medium businesses across all sectors, Deputy Trade and Industry Minister Elizabeth Thabethe says.

Speaking at the opening of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) in New Delhi on Monday, Thabethe said relations between the two countries should be looked at as a partnership.

Nineteen South African businessmen and women in the arts and crafts sector are showcasing their products at the fair through the department’s Export Marketing and Investment Assistance.

“The crafts sector is one that has potential in attracting jobs because of its low entry barriers. Events such as the IITF are key in establishing long term business relations with buyers, which in turn may translate into job creation opportunities in this sector when crafters seal off tangible deals with international buyers,” she said.

The IITF, which is the largest integrated trade fair with both business-to-business and business to consumer components, takes place in Pragati Maiden, New Delhi, until 27 November.

It is one of the largest trade fairs in the world both in terms of exhibitor and visitor participation. An estimated 7 500 exhibitors from all over the are expected to participating in the fair, which offers participants from different segments of industry adequate visibility for their products and services among fair visitors.

The products being displayed range from leather, textiles and handicrafts to jewellery and furniture.
The arts and craft sector supports government’s priorities like women empowerment as well as rural and urban development. – BuaNews

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