Ramaphosa Highlights Mozambique as South Africa’s Top African Trade Partner During Maputo Visit for Bi-National Commission
President Cyril Ramaphosa has spotlighted Mozambique’s rising role as South Africa’s premier economic ally on the continent, stressing their shared history and future prosperity. Speaking at an official dinner in Maputo on the eve of the fourth South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission, Ramaphosa described the nations as “one people” united by past struggles against colonialism and apartheid, now channeling that bond into robust economic ties. This visit, from 2 to 3 December 2025, aims to deepen collaboration in key sectors like energy, infrastructure, and mining, amid growing trade volumes that reached R119.4 billion in 2024.
The two-day working trip, at the invitation of Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, underscores a partnership forged in adversity and evolving into one of mutual benefit. As South Africa seeks to bolster regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area, Ramaphosa’s engagements highlight opportunities for investment and job creation. With a high-level delegation in tow, the BNC serves as a platform to review progress and unlock new avenues, reflecting the ANC-led government’s focus on economic diplomacy.
Key Remarks from the Official Dinner
At the dinner hosted by President Chapo, Ramaphosa emphasised the bilateral relationship’s transformation. “Today, Mozambique is South Africa’s largest trading partner on the African continent and the fourth in the world. We are committed to growing this partnership in a mutually beneficial manner,” he stated. He noted how their common heritage and geographic closeness bind the countries, adding, “South Africans and Mozambicans are bound together by a common heritage, geographic proximity and familial ties. We are one people.”
Ramaphosa praised South African businesses for viewing Mozambique as a prime investment spot, spanning various sectors. He highlighted the flagship Integrated Hydrocarbons Infrastructure Facility in Temane, a joint venture with Sasol set for launch on 3 December, which promises to enhance regional energy security and industrial growth. “We are also looking forward to attending the Business Forum in Vilankulo, in which many South African companies, State-owned enterprises and development finance institutions will participate,” he added.
These comments set an optimistic tone for the BNC, focusing on energy, infrastructure, transport, tourism, agriculture, and mining—areas with “huge potential for expanded investment.” The President expressed gratitude for Chapo’s hospitality, reinforcing the familial warmth between the nations.
Agenda for the Two-Day Visit
Ramaphosa arrived in Maputo on the afternoon of 2 December, welcomed by Chapo at the airport. The programme includes bilateral talks, the BNC’s official opening at the State House, and a joint press conference on 3 December. The leaders will then head to Temane for the hydrocarbons facility launch, followed by the South Africa-Mozambique Business Forum in Vilankulo.
The BNC, established in 2015, has led to over 70 agreements and memoranda of understanding in fields like agriculture, defence, health, and investment. This fourth session will evaluate advancements since 2022 and explore fresh trade opportunities. Trade between the countries grew from R114 billion in 2023 to R119.4 billion in 2024, with South African exports to Mozambique hitting R19.4 billion.
Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola, in his opening remarks at the BNC preparatory meeting, echoed Ramaphosa’s sentiments, calling for enhanced cooperation to drive economic integration. He highlighted the need to address shared challenges like energy security and infrastructure development.
High-Level Delegation and Strategic Focus
Ramaphosa is joined by a powerhouse ministerial team, underscoring the visit’s importance. The delegation includes:
- Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola
- Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga
- Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
- Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille
- Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy
- Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana
- Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau
- Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe
- Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa
This lineup reflects priorities in security, economic growth, and social welfare. The focus on energy aligns with regional needs, especially with the Temane facility boosting gas production for both countries. Sasol’s involvement highlights private sector ties, with investments supporting job creation and industrial revival.
Economic Ties and Future Prospects
Mozambique ranks as South Africa’s top African trade partner and fourth globally, driven by proximity and complementary economies. South African firms have poured billions into Mozambican projects, from mining to tourism. Ramaphosa’s push for “mutually beneficial” growth aims to expand this, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area for broader market access.
The Business Forum in Vilankulo will showcase opportunities, with state-owned enterprises and finance bodies participating. Analysts see potential in agriculture and transport, where joint infrastructure could cut costs and boost trade.
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