European ambassador talks trade with Bay port

THE Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to South Africa, together with trade councillors from various European embassies, mulled over boosting business relations between their countries and Richards Bay during a visit to town.

As a collective voice for 28 countries, including France, Germany and the United Kingdom, the EU is known for being the biggest player on the global trading scene with members accounting for 19% of the world’s imports and exports.

EU Ambassador Roeland van de Geer says the delegation reaches out to all of South Africa’s provinces, but it was firmly decided to place focus on Zululand to find out more about the region’s prospects.

‘Our aim here is to learn as much as possible about this area to accurately advise EU members about trade possibilities and to strengthen our ties with this area,’ says Van de Geer.

‘The Richards Bay port is very active, but we must continue to inform each other as there is a lot more tonnage going out than tonnage coming into this harbour.

‘I would advise looking at ways to increase imports and expand on fruits and other agricultural exports from this region to diversify the port’s business on a long-term basis.’

After a tour of the port, the delegates met with the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) company management to discuss local industries. EU’s Head of Political, Economic and Trade Axel Pougin de La Maisonneuve highlighted that the port and RBIDZ responds well to the EU’s activities in dealing with trade matters.

However, he asserted the importance of reaffirming a trade agreement.

‘We’re trying to promote SA, but it can be difficult because of broader policy issues,’ said de La Maisonneuve.

‘A firm trade regime is crucial in giving investors assurance and certainty when making big decisions.’