- The Made in the Cape Hosted Buyers’ Programme connects Western Cape exporters with international buyers, driving trade and strengthening the province’s position in global markets
- 38 international buyers from 16 countries have engaged 275 exporters this week, in over 600 B2B meetings
- Market access is critical for export-led growth - Wesgro’s mission is to help local businesses break into new markets while expanding in established markets
06 March 2025: Cape Town and the Western Cape’s products and services were in full display this week as the annual Made in the Cape Hosted Buyers’ programme, in partnership with Standard Bank, got underway—an initiative connecting local producers and service providers with international buyers to open new trade opportunities and drive economic growth. With demand for high-quality goods and services rising worldwide, this platform is helping Cape-based businesses secure a foothold in key markets.
Launched in March 2023 by Wesgro, the official tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, the programme officially kicked off on Monday with the welcome reception held at Nasdak in the Media24 Building. This year, it brought together 38 international buyers from 16 countries, including the USA, Canada, Cameroon, Czech Republic, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, UK, UAE, China, India, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. The buyers came from a diverse range of sectors including Food & Beverage, Primary Agriculture, Services, Manufacturing, Clothing & Textiles.
Throughout the week, businesses participated in over 600 targeted trade matchmaking sessions held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), forging connections that could lead to long-term export growth.
Reflecting on the importance of this event, Wesgro CEO, Wrenelle Stander said: “Market access is critical for export-led growth, and our mission is to help local businesses break into new markets while expanding in established markets. The Made in the Cape Hosted Buyers’ Programme is helping connect global buyers with Western Cape producers, making it easier for businesses to showcase their products and services and secure international trade deals.”
Michael Hill, Head: Regional Business Banking for the Western Cape highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful impact, as he noted that "Standard Bank is proud to partner with Wesgro on the Made in the Cape initiative, which has become a powerful platform for showcasing the Western Cape's exceptional entrepreneurial talent. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to drive Africa's growth by connecting local businesses to global opportunities. Through our established relationship with Wesgro in opening Chinese markets and our shared focus on diversity and sustainability, we aim to empower these entrepreneurs to scale beyond borders.”
The initiative has received strong backing, with Dr. Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, and Alderman James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth addressing buyers and exporters at the launch.
Alderman Vos highlighted Cape Town’s strategic advantage as a global trading hub: “Our region is home to world-class producers. Strengthening international trade ties not only supports local businesses but also boosts Cape Town’s global reputation and competitiveness.”
Dr. Meyer emphasised the vital role of exports in economic development: “The more we export, the more we grow our economy and create jobs. That’s why we are prioritising global market access for Western Cape businesses, ensuring they have the support and infrastructure to compete on the world stage.”
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