Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau will home in on automotive cooperation during his participation at the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair, in Algeria, noting that the sector is a priority.

The week-long trade fair programme for Tau will include the official launch of the South African Pavilion stand scheduled to take place on Friday, and a meeting with the South African automotive sector which includes original-equipment and component manufacturers.

He emphasised the importance of mutually beneficial trade opportunities and possible component manufacturing partnerships with Algerian companies.

Last month, Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni said at the National Association of Automotive Components and Allied Manufacturers 2025 Show that the global economy faced strong headwinds owing to shifts to unilateralism and protectionism.

Locally, tariffs imposed on US imports from South Africa are likely to erode the competitiveness of manufacturers and suppliers.

“The focus is on how South African companies can partner with Algerian companies along the automotive value chain,” Tau stressed.

Tau leads a delegation of 30 South African businesses who are showcasing their products and services at the fair and the Minister will also participate in the Ministerial Panel on the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Automotive Forum.

He will conclude his visit by engaging his Algerian counterparts on bilateral trade and investment matters.

During President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State visit to Algeria in December 2024, the two countries signed multiple agreements, including an agreement on economic cooperation.

The Ministerial session highlighted the importance of forming a dedicated team composed of representatives from both countries to work on agreed action plans for the implementation of the agreement.

Tau said this trade fair offered the South African government an opportunity to accelerate this implementation.