A Historic State Visit with Strategic Significance
At the invitation of Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong, President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa is undertaking a State visit to Vietnam from October 23-24, 2024.
This marks the first visit by a South African head of state to Vietnam in nearly two decades, symbolizing both nations’ commitment to strengthening their partnership amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Widely regarded as a strategic milestone, this visit is expected to elevate the “Partnership for Cooperation and Development” between Vietnam and South Africa to new heights of substance and efficiency.
“South Africa draws immense inspiration from Vietnam’s post-war reconstruction. There are invaluable lessons we can learn from Vietnam’s governance, financial management, and economic reforms,” stated Mr. Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson for President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Historical Bonds of Solidarity and Mutual Support
Vietnam and South Africa share a unique historical connection rooted in their shared struggles for national independence and social justice. The Communist Party of Vietnam and the African National Congress (ANC) forged ties of friendship and solidarity during their respective fights against colonialism and apartheid.
Since establishing diplomatic relations on December 22, 1993, the two countries have cultivated a relationship based on mutual trust, respect, and shared values of peace, independence, and cooperative development.
South Africa: Africa’s Economic Powerhouse
Situated at the southernmost tip of the continent, South Africa boasts Africa’s most industrialized and diversified economy. It dominates approximately 60% of the global chromium trade, ranks first in gold exports, second in platinum production, and fourth in wine exports.
South Africa plays a pivotal role in regional and global governance as the sole African member of the G20 and an active participant in BRICS. The nation champions African integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and currently holds the 2025 G20 Presidency, solidifying its global leadership.
Strengthening Bilateral Trade and Investment
Trade and investment ties between Vietnam and South Africa have witnessed steady growth in recent years. In 2024, bilateral trade reached approximately $1.8 billion, establishing South Africa as Vietnam’s largest trading partner in Africa. In terms of investment, South Africa has 20 active projects in Vietnam with a total registered capital of $0.88 million, ranking 109th among 151 investing countries. Conversely, Vietnam has 4 investment projects in South Africa valued at $8.86 million, placing it 45th among Vietnam’s 84 overseas investment destinations. These figures underscore the growing economic engagement between the two nations and the potential for further expansion.
South Africa currently stands as Vietnam’s top trade partner in Africa, with bilateral trade in 2024 driven by Vietnam’s exports of electronics, footwear, textiles, and agricultural products, and South Africa’s exports of minerals, metals, and raw materials.
Both nations are exploring 50 potential export items to enhance market access and diversify trade flows. Investment cooperation is expanding into renewable energy, mining, steel production, agricultural processing, fertilizers, and supporting industries.
A delegation from South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment during a visit to Vietnam (Photo: Nhandan newspaper)
Beyond Economics: Fostering Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Both Vietnam and South Africa are committed to inclusive and sustainable development. South Africa’s National Development Plan – Vision 2030 focuses on improving livelihoods and reducing inequality, while Vietnam pursues its Green Growth Strategy and digital transformation agenda.
These shared goals provide a robust foundation for cooperation in green energy transition, climate adaptation, and digital economy development – critical areas shaping the future of global growth.
“Both Vietnam and South Africa are emerging economies with dynamic societies. Our strengths complement each other – Vietnam’s manufacturing and agricultural prowess aligns seamlessly with South Africa’s industrial capacity and resource base,” notes the Analysis Team from VnEconomy.
Multilateral Cooperation on the Global Stage
On the international stage, Vietnam and South Africa have consistently coordinated and supported each other’s initiatives across various organizations. South Africa has backed Vietnam’s successful candidacies for key bodies such as the United Nations Security Council (2020-2021), the UN Human Rights Council (2023-2025), and the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (2023-2027).
Both countries share a common goal of amplifying the collective voice of developing nations and advancing South-South cooperation through multilateral frameworks like the United Nations, the Group of 77 (G77), BRICS, and other global platforms. This coordination reflects their shared commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and sustainable development in the international order.
People-to-People Connections and Cultural Exchange
In recent years, cooperation between the two nations has expanded beyond government and business to encompass education, biodiversity management, and cultural exchange. Measures such as simplifying visa procedures, promoting tourism, and fostering direct air connectivity are under discussion to strengthen ties between their peoples.
Delegations from South African ministries and provinces have visited Vietnam to explore cooperation models, particularly in sustainable agriculture, vocational training, and small business development. Many South African leaders have expressed admiration for Vietnam’s post-war recovery and industrial modernization achievements.
A Vision for the Future
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State visit to Vietnam not only reinforces political trust but also lays the groundwork for a new chapter of comprehensive and practical cooperation between the two countries. It reflects Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, development, multilateralization, and diversification, coupled with effective international integration, and South Africa’s determination to expand partnerships with dynamic Asian economies.
Looking ahead, both nations share a vision of a partnership that transcends geographical distance – one rooted in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and a joint commitment to sustainable growth.
Together, Vietnam and South Africa are poised to transform their historic friendship into a forward-looking strategic partnership, contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia, Africa, and the world at large.
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