GGDA’s Mathema discusses key issues on the agenda at the 8th Southern Africa – Europe CEO Dialogue

The 8th Southern Africa-Europe CEO Dialogue is currently underway in Johannesburg, convening businessmen and policymakers from both regions. Muzi Mathema, Group Executive in charge of Business Intelligence at The Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, joined CNBC Africa to provide insights into the key issues being discussed during the dialogue. Mathema highlighted the agency's efforts in fostering deeper partnerships between South Africa and the European Union to address the challenges impacting businesses and policymakers in both regions. The dialogue aims to explore the future of the continent and identify ways to enhance free trade agreements for the benefit of citizens in Southern Africa. During the sessions, policymakers and CEOs engaged in constructive discussions on the role of free trade agreements and the opportunities for business growth and job creation. Mathema emphasized the importance of regulatory reforms to facilitate private sector investment and improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. The agency's focus on driving inclusive industrialization and promoting special economic zones as investment opportunities for European businesses was discussed. Mathema also mentioned the agency's ongoing dialogue with European counterparts to identify potential investment partnerships and opportunities for SMEs to participate in the value chain. Overall, the dialogue aims to strengthen collaboration between South Africa and the European Union to drive sustainable economic growth and development.