South Africa Sets Trade and Investment Agenda as G20 Leader

(3 Minutes Read)

South Africa, which took over the presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) on December 1, 2024, aims to use this leadership role to enhance investment in Africa’s infrastructure and productive sectors, facilitating the continent’s integration into global trade. Andrew Whitfield, the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, presented this strategic vision during the first meeting of the G20 Trade and Investment Working Group, held virtually on March 18, 2025.

The Working Group has identified four key priorities: promoting trade and inclusive growth, creating a trade agenda responsive to global challenges, advancing green industrialization, and reforming the World Trade Organization (WTO). Whitfield pointed out Africa’s potential as a future hub for global economic growth, highlighting its rich natural resources and youthful population as critical advantages.

The virtual meeting, from March 18 to 20, included representatives from G20 member countries, invited nations, and international organizations like the WTO and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Whitfield emphasized South Africa’s commitment, through its G20 presidency, to fostering global cooperation and building strong partnerships that promote comprehensive growth and development. He stressed that collective action is necessary to overcome current challenges and ensure a more inclusive and sustainable future.

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The Deputy Minister noted the global expectation for the G20 to lead on urgent international issues, underscoring the importance of the group meeting these expectations effectively. South Africa will host the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025, representing a key moment in its presidency. This initiative aligns with broader continental goals to boost Africa’s role in global trade and stimulate economic development through strategic infrastructure investments and sustainable industrial practices.