South African exporters are being encouraged to look at Hong Kong as a strategic entry point into China and broader Asian markets, as shifting trade dynamics, logistics congestion and tariff pressures force a rethink of traditional export routes.

The message emerged at the first Exporters Western Cape (EWC) event of 2026, hosted in partnership with law firm Webber Wentzel and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), where speakers highlighted Hong Kong’s role as a global trade and logistics hub and its growing relevance for African exporters seeking market diversification. Exporters Western Cape is a non-profit organisation established in 1979 to support and promote active, sustainable exporting in the Western Cape.

Opening the event, Terry Gale, chair of EWC, said exporters were operating in a challenging environment but that closer collaboration across the logistics and trade ecosystem was beginning to yield results.

“Exporters are very aware of the challenges they face, particularly around logistics, port performance and connectivity,” said Gale. “As an independent organisation, Exporters Western Cape has an important role to play in being the voice of exporters and engaging regularly with stakeholders, including port authorities, logistics operators and government. There is a good story to tell - volumes have held up and issues are being acknowledged and addressed. We are stronger when we work together.”

Daniel Lam, regional director of the HKTDC based in Dubai, said Hong Kong remained a resilient and forward-looking economy despite ongoing global uncertainty.

“Hong Kong has always been characterised by a strong spirit of innovation and creativity,” he said. “It remains an ideal platform for South African companies seeking access to Asia and China, while at the same time we are seeing growing interest from Chinese companies wanting to better understand Africa and its long-term potential.”

Providing trade context, Gary Ng, senior economist at HKTDC Research, highlighted the scale and growth of trade between Hong Kong and Africa.

“In 2025, bilateral trade between Hong Kong and Africa reached US$6.5 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 9%. South Africa was Hong Kong’s largest trading partner in Africa, its fourth-largest export market on the continent and its largest source of imports from Africa.”

Conrad Hendry, representing HKTDC’s Africa-focused engagement, said Hong Kong-based distributors and importers could play a critical role for South African companies seeking entry into China and other Asian markets.

“For companies looking to enter Asia, working with Hong Kong distributors can significantly reduce risk,” said Hendry. “They already have established distribution networks, strong due diligence processes and a deep understanding of the regulatory and commercial environment.”

pic from L to R: Gavin Fitzmaurice (Webber Wentzel), Conrad Hendry (HKTDC), Terry Gale (EWC), Daniel Lam (HKTDC), Gary Ng (HKTDC)