Mozambique remains South Africa’s largest trading partner in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and on the continent, recording an annual trade volume of over two billion dollars.
According to Puleng Chaba, South Africa’s Chargé d’Affaires in Mozambique, interviewed by AIM, data show that the business exchange between the two countries is driven by geographic proximity, historical ties, and mutual economic interests, consolidating a dynamic and strategic partnership.
Mozambican exports to South Africa include aluminium from Mozal aluminium smelter, which represents 40 percent of total exports. The exports also include electricity from Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB), the publicly-owned company that operates the Cahora Bassa dam, on the Zambezi River in the province of Tete, as well as agricultural products (cotton, sugar, and tobacco), and minerals such as titanium and gemstones.
In contrast, Mozambique’s main imports from South Africa include vehicles and transport equipment, accounting for 20 percent, processed foods, electrical equipment, agricultural and construction machinery, and chemicals and generic pharmaceuticals.
“Between 1,700 and 2,000 trucks cross the border with Mozambique daily, bringing all kinds of goods. Sometimes it’s aluminium, chrome, other times it’s agricultural products. We supply many commodities to Mozambican economy, and some of these are then transported to other destinations”, Chaba said.
According to the diplomat, “South Africa is Mozambique’s largest trading partner in the region, while Mozambique is among the main African destinations for South African trade.”
Globally, the volume of trade positions South Africa just behind China and India, which respectively move more than five and four billion dollars in bilateral trade with Mozambique.
“We are only behind China and India in terms of bilateral trade with Mozambique. Today, the focus is on diversifying investment, attracting foreign direct investment, and creating strong connections between national and foreign companies”, he said.
According to Chaba, who was also speaking in the context of the 60th edition of the Maputo International Fair (FACIM 2025), which will take place from 25 to 31 August, over 300 South African companies currently operate in Mozambique, in sectors such as energy, agriculture, trade, and financial services.
“We are demonstrating innovations in manufacturing, finance, and green technologies. We are not just in Mozambique to do business, but to build relationships that improve the lives of communities and drive inclusive growth”, he said.
