Cape Town – Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged the UK to increase the tariff-free quota for South African wine and sugar imports.
Speaking at a South African Heritage Month event in London, he called for flexibility in the current 70/30 split of bulk and bottled wine exports, proposing a 50/50 split.
“As the South African government, we urge flexibility for a 50/50 split. In our view, this does not necessitate an amendment of the EPA but can be a decision of the SACUM-UK Joint Council.
“South Africa has requested that the United Kingdom raise the TRQ amounts allowed under the Environmental Protection Agency Framework for South African sugar to 171 thousand tonnes and for wine to 150 million litres,” said Mashatile on Monday.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is currently in London, seeking to boost trade and investment ties between South Africa and the United Kingdom. #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/hcrJdPo03p
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He emphasised the potential to expand South African exports, including local beverages like umqombothi, and praised ongoing trade ties with the UK.
Mashatile also discussed the importance of the Government of National Unity (GNU), highlighting its role in driving economic growth and fostering democracy.
“We have shown to the world that, despite our differences, we can work together for a single goal – to create a stronger South Africa. We have also shown the world that our rainbow country has a thriving democracy.”
He commended South Africans abroad, dubbing them “Global South Africans”, for their contributions to the country’s international standing.
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Source: AFP
Picture: X/@GovernmentZA
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