The South African Embassy in Thailand led a delegation to the Province of KwaZulu-Natal from 18-22 September 2011. This delegation is a follow-up to meetings between MEC Mabuyakhulu, the SA Embassy: Thailand and the South African – Thai Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, TIKZN, TKZN and Enterprise iLembe that took place in Thailand in November 2011. The KZN delegation’s visit to Thailand last year was twofold; firstly to accept the handover of the event: World Golfers Championship from Thailand and secondly; to promote KZN as an investment destination.
Both aspects of the visit have proven to be an immense success as KZN and iLembe gets ready to host the World Amateur Golfers Championship at the end of October (we have subsequently won the bid to host the event for a further two years) and another reciprocal visit from a Thai Delegation to KZN.
The delegation expressed interest in exploring and visiting various projects and opportunities for investment and trade within the province. The targeted sectors include chemicals, paper, plastics, construction and renewable energy to name but a few.
The delegation was hosted to various tours and site visits, highlighting KwaZulu-Natal’s advantages and promoting the province as the premier investment destination and leader in export trade.
Enterprise iLembe hosted the delegation on Tuesday, 20 September 2011 at the Sangweni Tourism Centre in Ballito. The CEO Ms Kanyi Gasa highlighted the competitive advantages of investing in the iLembe District and presented on various opportunities available in the region. The Elan Group and Tongaat Hullet Developments also presented on various development investment opportunities within KZN.
The delegation had the opportunity to also browse through the Integrated Craft hub at Sangweni Tourism Centre where they purchased various craft items which are handmade by the communities of iLembe.
This was followed by a sumptuous lunch at the Fairmont Zimbali Resort before departing to a meeting with the MEC for Economic Development; Mike Mabuyakhulu in Durban.
