To further position KwaZulu-Natal as a gateway to Africa and the world, more than 320 delegates from South Africa attended the BRICS Seminar on Trade and Investment on 17 and 18 August at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban. The attendees included 43 foreign delegates from Brazil, Russia, India, and China.

During the seminar, the City of Durban and the KZN provincial leadership had the opportunity to showcase programmes and projects that have the potential to promote economic collaboration and attract foreign investment to South Africa. Following the formal programme addressed by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina, there were B2B meetings where local business owners had the opportunity to interact with the foreign delegates.

This platform was to facilitate business collaborations and expand market access for local businesses, some of whom exhibited at the seminar. A total of 43 exhibitors made up of SMMES and government entities showcased their products. Delegates also visited catalytic projects to explore investment opportunities available in eThekwini and the province. The site visits included a tour of the Durban Port, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone and Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone.

These visits assured potential investors that Durban and KwaZulu-Natal are open for business and that government is working hard to create a conducive environment for businesses to operate. eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said, "We are pleased that this platform will inform BRICS delegates and potential investors keen on exploring investment opportunities in the City and province.

"City Manager Musa Mbhele said the City was thrilled to be part of the seminar, which will expose eThekwini to many business opportunities and investment. "The City is earmarked for massive growth from several catalytic projects over the next few years which will transform the City's economic landscape," he said.