The South African Consulate in Shanghai, alongside Brand South Africa and Development Reimagined, recently hosted a networking dinner for African designers participating in the 2025 Shanghai Fashion Week (SHFW). The event underscored deepening cultural and economic collaboration between Africa and China.
South African Consul General in China Phuti Tsipa emphasized the nations' robust trade relationship, noting, "South Africa is China's top African trading partner, and China remains our largest trading partner globally." Tsipa expressed optimism about expanding South African brands in China, stating, "Seeing our products in Shanghai’s stores would be a milestone."
Tshepiso Malele, Brand SA’s China lead, praised SHFW as a strategic platform to elevate African designers. "The warm reception here opens doors for creative partnerships and market growth," Malele said, highlighting opportunities in China’s thriving fashion sector.
The gathering reflects broader efforts to leverage cultural exchanges to strengthen economic ties, offering insights for businesses and creatives eyeing cross-continental opportunities.
