Australian Trade Commission in South Africa
The Australian Trade Commission in South Africa is situated on the corner of Maude and 5th Street in Johannesburg. The Australian Trade Commission is run by Phillip Green, who oversees the day to day running of the office and its duties. He has worked all over the world and accepted the position of Australian High Commissioner to South Africa in August 2004. The Order of Australia Medal was awarded to him in 2003 for his involvement and response to the Bali tragedy.
South Africa is Australia’s 21st largest market, and the most dynamic market in Africa. Trade between South Africa and Australia has grown with ten percent over the past five years, and represents Australia’s 15th most significant export market. Australia exports mainly coal, crude petroleum, motor vehicles and medicaments to South Africa, and in turn imports passenger vehicles, pig iron, fertilizers and furniture.
Since the abolishment of apartheid in South Africa, investments between the two countries have expanded tremendously, with Australia investing in the South African mining, agriculture and trade services. South Africa is also the only African member of the Cairns Group, which plays an important role in the multilateral agriculture negotiations. South Africa is a vital member to the G20 group that represents the interest in developing countries in regard to import and export, the agricultural sector and domestic support.
The 2010 Soccer World Cup will be hosted by South Africa, and as the country is upgrading certain infrastructures to accommodate this event, it opens up opportunities for Australian companies to assist in these changes, through their experience and expertise for those who were involved in the Sydney Olympics in 2000 and Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006.
Imported products from South Africa, which are provided by the government departments, Iron and Steel Industrial Corporation, railway authorities, provincial administrations and harbor authorities, do not require import permits, although the suppliers must obtain the relevant permits.
Australia has appointed a Senior Trade Commissioner in South Africa, to promote commercial opportunities, with in South Africa, to the corporate Australia. The Australian Trade Commission in Johannesburg insures that all imports and exports are dealt with in the correct manner and that the interest of all parties concerned, are protected.