A representative of Xiamen enterprises negotiates with a South African businessman. [Photo provided by Liang Jiayu]

The China (Xiamen) - South Africa SMEs Matchmaking Event, organized by the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center, took place in Xiamen on June 25. The event aimed to strengthen practical cooperation between Chinese and South African Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), fostering economic and trade exchanges between Xiamen and African nations.

Representatives from South African SMEs like Tsotha Supply Services (Pty) Ltd, Delphi International Company, and Khaya Company engaged in discussions with over 60 Xiamen enterprises, exploring collaboration opportunities in healthcare, security equipment, mineral resources, and other sectors.

During the event, leaders from the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center provided a brief overview of the center's development history. South African business delegates showcased their unique products, channel advantages, and cooperation needs, underscoring the potential for partnerships.

The matchmaking session facilitated one-on-one discussions, creating a highly effective platform for exchange. Companies such as Baotai Biotechnology and Tianwei Technology engaged in detailed talks with South African counterparts on pertinent business matters.

South African representatives lauded the professionalism and cooperation readiness displayed by Xiamen enterprises, expressing eagerness to establish long-term partnerships in supply chain management, technology integration, and product exports. They praised Xiamen's open and inclusive business environment and anticipated exploring broader collaboration avenues through the BRICS platform.

Attendees commended the event for leveraging the international cooperation service network of the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center, facilitating precise business resource matching, and effectively addressing information asymmetry challenges in cross-border cooperation.

Since its establishment, the center has served as a crucial platform for BRICS cooperation, fostering resource aggregation and acting as a bridge for efficient project collaboration among BRICS countries. To date, it has facilitated the signing of 107 BRICS cooperation projects with a total investment of 50.6 billion yuan ($7.06 billion).