Mpumalanga and India toast to trade, tourism and jobs

By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe

Trade relations between India and South Africa continue to flourish, yet the true potential of regional trade remains vastly untapped.

This was revealed when the Consulate General of India, Shri Koventhan, hosted a delegation from Mpumalanga Province led by MEC for DEDT(Department of Economic Development and Tourism), Jesta Sidell, on behalf Premier Mandla Ndlovu in a short meeting with the investors that was held in Mbombeka.

The session was reportedly a bid to strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations, with a focus on boosting economic growth, tourism, and job creation in the province.

MEC Jesta Sidell said the potential between the two regions is still far from being fully realised. Sidell said trade relations between India and South Africa continue to flourish, yet the true potential of regional trade remains vastly untapped.

Sidell was accompanied by Members of the Executive Council, as well as Mpumalanga Director-General, Maggie Skosana.

“Platforms like this networking dinner are vital because they bridge the gap between high-level diplomatic relations and real-world business transactions,” said MEC Sidell.

She assured Indian investors that Mpumalanga is open and ready for business.

“To our Indian investors and business representatives present tonight: we assure you that the Mpumalanga Provincial Government is committed to creating an enabling environment for your investments. We are dedicated to cutting red tape, ensuring regulatory efficiency, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable and inclusive growth,” said MEC Sidell.

The Provincial Government says the partnership will focus on practical outcomes.

“The Mpumalanga Provincial Government and the Consulate General of India continue to rubber-stamp initiatives aimed at doing business with India,” said the Provincial Government.

The Consul General and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to Premier Ndlovu, on Tuesday, whereby Mpumalanga laid out the seventh administration’s focus on accelerating inclusive economic growth, supporting local manufacturing and creating sustainable employment, amongst other topics.

Premier Ndlovu furthermore emphasised the vision to identify practical areas of cooperation between the two countries that can support local businesses, expand market access, and support Mpumalanga businesses particularly those owned by women and young people.

Ndlovu also engaged the India Business Forum in Mbombela on Wednesday 30 September 2026 to discuss investment opportunities in Mpumalanga that will be of benefit to the people of Mpumalanga and the business community of India.

The Forum brought together businesses from sectors including manufacturing, skills development and training, technology, mining and pharmaceuticals, among others.

The Premier reflected on the Province’s Investment Summit held last year in Middelburg, in which pledges to the value of R238 billion, were made by investors.