As the global textile supply chain continues to search for equilibrium, South Africa is emerging as a new anchor. The 8th China Textile & Apparel Exhibition (South Africa) has concluded in Cape Town, attracting nearly 150 exhibitors, half of which are Chinese. This ratio signals a shift from tentative exploration to substantive engagement by China's textile industry in the African market.
The Zero-Tariff Lever
The most discussed policy driver at the exhibition was China's comprehensive zero-tariff scheme for 53 African countries with diplomatic ties. Official data confirms that South African cotton and textile raw materials are included in this list. For an industry long burdened by high export costs, this removes a critical barrier.
Bilateral trade between China and South Africa reached $53.58 billion in 2025, with China maintaining its position as South Africa's largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years. The textile sector, a traditional pillar of this partnership, is now gaining new momentum. Nerisha Jairaj, Executive Director of the South African Footwear and Leather Export Council, noted on-site that the policy offers significant opportunities even for smaller suppliers.
From Selling Products to Building Capacity
A notable trend at the exhibition was the move by some Chinese companies toward local presence. Hangzhou Beijin Import & Export Co., which has operated in South Africa for over a decade and exhibited for the fourth time, has established a company in Cape Town and is exploring factory setup in Durban. The goal is clear: use South Africa as a base to radiate across the continent.
First-time exhibitor Zhejiang Huida Textile & Garment Co. reported reaching cooperation intentions with three companies during the event. For newcomers, South Africa's high consumption capacity and solid industrial base offer an ideal springboard.
Ziv Shani, a South African youth who has facilitated China-South Africa business for five years, praised Chinese partners for their integrity, professionalism, and efficiency, noting that China's massive market represents a significant opportunity for South African enterprises.
Complementary Strengths
South Africa is a key consumer market for textile and apparel in Africa with a solid industrial foundation. China's advantages in technology, quality, and supply chain efficiency fill the gaps in local production capacity. This complementarity was evident at the exhibition, where Chinese firms offered complete solutions from yarn to finished fabric.
The South African Footwear and Leather Export Council plans to participate in the China International Import Expo in November, signaling deeper two-way trade. Jairaj highlighted strong Chinese consumer interest in high-quality, African-featured products, while South African footwear manufacturers heavily source Chinese supply chain components.