Country Profile

Officially republic of south africa, popularly known as south africa, is vested in the southernmost part of the africa. Eminent member of the commonwealth of nations. South african economy is ranked 24th throughout the world. The nation is surrounded by the coastline of 2798 km. South africa is an emerging economy, which is well heeled with the natural resources, well developed financial, legal and communication sectors. GDP of south africa has crossed the landmark of $467.6 billion, with an official exchange rate of 5%. South africa is recognized as the world's largest producer of platinum, gold and chromium. The major exporting products include gold, diamond, platinum, machinery & equipments. South africa shares friendly exporting relationship with japan, china, usa, uk and netherland.

Snapshot

Economic Overview

• Two-tiered economy, rivalling other developed countries and the most basic infrastructure.
• Middle-income emerging market.
• Enjoys highest per capita in Africa.
• Well developed financial, legal, communications, energy, and transport sectors.
• The stock exchange ranks among the top 10 in the world.
• Abundant reserves of gold and platinum.
• Leading producer of coal and diamonds in the world.
• Gradually the economy is shaping into service industry.

International Trade
Major Export Items
Live Animals and Animal Products, Prepared Foodstuffs, Beverages and Tobacco, Mineral Products, Pulp, Paper and Related Products, Chemical Products, Textiles, Imitation Jewellery, Stones, Pearls, Coins, Precious Stones and Retailed Articles, Base Metals and Related Articles, Machines, Mechanical Appliances and Electrical Equipment, Transport Equipment.

Main Destinations of Exports
US, UK, Japan, Germany, Netherlands

Major Import Items
Live Animals and Animal Products, Minerals Products, Chemical Products, Plastic and Rubber Products, Textiles, Base Metals and Related Articles, Machines, Mechanical Appliances and Electrical Equipment, Transport Equipment, Medical or Surgical Instruments, Clocks and Musical Instruments.

Main Origins of Imports
Germany, US, China, Japan, UK, France, Saudi Arabia, Iran

Contacts of Trade Ministries/ Associations

Business Visa Rules
The allowable activities of business visitors are typically limited to the following:

• To attend any business meetings or discussions.
• To attend any conferences.
• Any short-term, up to 90 days, project related activities for a South African client, provided you remain on home company payroll.

The following are the requirements for Business Visitors:

• The applicant must have a residence and an employer outside South Africa.
• The applicant must be traveling to South Africa for a defined, limited pre-set period and have pre-determined plans.
• The applicant must not receive compensation from sources within South Africa.
• The applicant's period of intended stay must be consistent with the intended purpose of the trip.
• The maximum period of stay per entry is 90 days.

Note :- Visitor visas generally permit a maximum stay of up to 90 days.

Business Hours
8.30 am to 5.00 pm - Shops (Monday to Friday and until 12.30 pm on Saturdays)
Note :- Some shops are also open on Sundays.

Public Holidays