Garden Route Bolsters Economic Growth with Export Seminar

On the 19th of September, 2024, George played host to a pivotal export seminar aimed at boosting the economic prowess of the Garden Route District. Crucial stakeholders gathered at the George Banquet Hall, hoping to forge a path to new markets and reinforce the district’s competitive edge in international trade. The Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Wesgro, together with the District Municipality, spearheaded this gathering, ushering in an era of opportunity and collaboration.

The seminar carved out an avenue for both aspiring and established exporters to marry ambition with knowledge. A collaborative ethos underscored the event as representatives from the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) shared valuable insights with attendees.

Deputy Mayor Ald Raybin Figland and Ald. Rosina Ruiters, the GRDM’s Portfolio Chairperson for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism, beaconed a message of growth through unity – advocating for the GRDM’s support programs and strategic partnerships essential for lucrative export ventures.

In particular, Ilse van Schalkwyk, from DEDAT, mapped out the Western Cape’s export trends and identified critical support mechanisms available to the private sector, while GRDM’s Richard Dyantyi illuminated the Garden Route’s export landscape, citing regional specialties like canola and honeybush tea that are redefining the district’s global footprint. Dyantyi also underlined Mossel Bay Port's pivotal role in bolstering the export chain.

The event was not just about frameworks and strategies but also bore witness to practical success stories. Peter Reinstorff, of Safari Braai Products, shared his company’s export journey, offering up anecdotal wisdom on maintaining product excellence and navigating complex international regulations.

Through the insights of Theo Adams from the George Business Chamber, businesses were guided on funding opportunities and compliance necessities, while Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory dispensed advice on navigating the subtleties of international trade dynamics.

The seminar concluded with a practical demonstration by Nomandla Nene from Wesgro, who showcased the Cape Trade Portal – a valuable tool for regional exporters. The day’s collaborative spirit culminated with Cllr Cobus Meiring’s vision of developing a comprehensive database to bolster the export community in the Garden Route.

This event has undeniably laid out a blueprint for collective success, signaling a bright future for the region’s economic landscape on the global stage.