Switzerland Global Enterprise sees many investment opportunities in Africa

Switzerland Global Enterprise (SGE) is embarking on a four-year Sub-Saharan Africa strategy with a focus on exploring business and investment opportunities in Africa. Currently, about a quarter of Switzerland's investments in Africa are concentrated in South Africa, where the country ranks among the top ten foreign investors in the continent's most industrialized nation. Simone Fedele, CEO of Switzerland Global Enterprise, the official organization for export and investment promotion, joined CNBC Africa to discuss strengthening Swiss-Africa ties. The trade relationship between Switzerland and South Africa is balanced, with both countries playing to their strengths. Switzerland exports minerals and precious metals to South Africa while importing machinery, medical equipment, and processed foods. Fedele emphasized the importance of the existing relationship and the need to understand and contribute to the interests of the government, universities, and South African businesses. One area of mutual interest is energy, with Switzerland recently launching a $3.5 billion long-term facility to support South Africa's energy transition. Switzerland has significant expertise in green technology and infrastructure, with 100 Swiss companies creating 50,000 jobs in the sector. Fedele highlighted Switzerland's focus on collaborations and knowledge transfer in areas like renewable energy and transportation. Despite the challenges of power cuts and load shedding in South Africa, Swiss companies operating in the country share the concern for reliable energy supply. They believe in contributing solutions to the energy crisis and emphasize the importance of a stable framework for doing business. As South Africa endeavors for sustainable and inclusive growth through black economic transformation and empowerment, Fedele stressed the need for businesses to adapt to the specific challenges in each country. Switzerland views the quality of the regulatory environment as a key factor in attracting investments and fostering collaborations. The Swiss Business Hub in the embassy supports Swiss companies in navigating the South African business landscape and identifying new opportunities. Switzerland is also actively investing in innovative companies in South Africa, with initiatives like Pripto Valley venture capital supporting over 100 local startups in blockchain solutions. By fostering sustainable growth and contributing to South Africa's transformation agenda, Switzerland aims to strengthen its ties and investments in the country.