SCC INSIDER Edition 3

OF COMMERCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

SCC INSIDER

EDITION 3 MAY 2023

The city of Johannesburg by night

O N T E N T

Mr.MarcosPelegrin

PresidentoftheSCCinSouthAfrica

Mr.MarcosPelegrin

PresidentoftheSCCinSouthAfrica

Dear SCC Members, friends and readers of our quarterly magazine,

I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of our digital magazine As always, we are committed to bringing you the most engaging and informative content possible.

Our magazine is dedicated to exploring the latest trends and ideas in business, innovation and much more We aim to provide our readers with valuable insights and practical advice that they can use to advance their businesses and achieve their goals In this edition, we have some exciting articles and features that we are sure you will find interesting The content ranges from different networking and corporate events, to in-depth analysis of the latest market trends There is something for everyone in these pages!

We believe that our magazine is more than just a collection of articles – it's a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for business, knowledge and learning We invite you to join us in this journey and to share your thoughts and feedback with us

In light of this – let me give you a brief overview of Spain and South Africa doing business together, especially after the recent announcement of Spain’s FDI into South Africa of € 2 1 billion over the next 5 years

Our two countries have always shared a deep and rich history, with ties that go back centuries But it is in the present day that we are seeing the true potential of our partnership As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, we have an opportunity to harness the power of our mutual strengths to unlock new opportunities for growth, prosperity and progress. Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in trade between our nations Spanish exports to South Africa have surged by over 20%, and we are seeing a similar trend in the opposite direction as well This is a testament to the strong business relationships that have been forged between our companies, and to the unwavering commitment of our governments to support these partnerships

However, it's not just about the numbers - it's about the impact that these partnerships are having on the ground. Our companies are working together to create new jobs, develop innovative solutions to complex challenges, and drive economic growth in both of our countries We are seeing investments in critical sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and tourism, all of which have the potential to create a brighter future for our citizens

One of the key benefits of our partnership is the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise between our nations This includes skills transfer, where Spanish companies can share their expertise and knowledge with South African businesses This exchange of skills and knowledge can lead to the development of new industries and create new job opportunities We have seen great progress in this area over the past few years, with Spanish companies working with South African partners to provide training and education programs that help to build local capacity and develop new skills. This not only benefits the individuals involved, but also strengthens the broader economic landscape of our two countries

As we continue to strengthen our partnership, I am confident that skills transfer will remain a key priority for our companies and governments By sharing knowledge and expertise, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for both of our nations One such example is in the renewable energy sector, where Spanish companies have been working closely with South African partners to develop new technologies and build local capacity For instance, Spanish companies have been involved in building and operating wind farms in South Africa, providing training and support to local workers to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills to maintain and operate these facilities

Another example is in the agricultural sector, where Spanish companies have been sharing their expertise in sustainable farming practices with South African farmers. This includes providing training on best practices for soil management, irrigation, and crop rotation, which can help to increase yields and improve the quality of crops In addition, Spanish companies have been partnering with South African universities and research institutions to support the development of new technologies and innovations For example, Spanish telecommunications companies have been working with South African researchers to develop new solutions for expanding broadband access in rural areas, which could have a significant impact on economic development and social inclusion

These are just a few examples of the skills transfer that is taking place between Spain and South Africa I believe that this exchange of knowledge and expertise will continue to be a driving force behind our partnership, helping to create new opportunities for growth and innovation in both of our countries

As we look ahead to the future, I am confident that the momentum we have built will only continue to grow. The potential for collaboration between our two nations is limitless, and it is up to us to seize these opportunities and drive them forward.

In conclusion, I want to express my gratitude to all of the companies, organizations, and individuals who have helped to make this partnership a reality I am honored to be part of such a dynamic and innovative community, and I look forward to continuing our work together in the years to come

Thank you for choosing our magazine as your source of information and inspiration We hope that you find our content engaging, informative, and thought-provoking

Thank you

Marcos Pelegrin President of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA

“Collaboration gives the freedom to come out from the narrow scopes of life to the field of endless possibilities.”

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the companies that have joined the Chamber as members in the past few months The Chamber is proud to have these companies in their respective industries as part of the extended SCC Family, and will strive towards building stronger relations between Spain and South Africa.

Acrow is aglobal manufacturer of storage and retail solutions including racking, shelving, scaffolding, solar, shop fittings and its accessories We are proud of our technologically advanced production facility, which can offer a complete solution as we design, develop, produce and install to meet our customers vision and mission

IESE is the business management school of the University of Navarra. With campuses in Barcelona, Madrid, Munich, New York and São Paulo, IESE’s innovative learning ecosystem allows it to offer training for managers in Europe, Asia, America and Africa Since 1958, the school has trained more than 55,000 managers and entrepreneurs, offering them a personalized and transformative experience IESE wants to continue building tomorrow by training leaders who can have a positive and lasting impact on people, companies and society

ParkBookings.Com is an authorised booking agent for South African National Parks that operates 21 national parks in South Africa, including the renowned Kruger National Park, Table Mountain and Karoo National Park We offer seamless “real-time” bookings for accommodation, park activities and Wild Card membership Walk-in bookings are welcome at our Johannesburg offices, where our friendly and experienced staff with over 60 years of collective experience can help you book you next adventure.

With a South African / German background and based in Barcelona, Heiko has a combination of international business skills, languages and cultural awareness He holds the Master’s degree in International Trade at the ESCI-UPF School of International Studies, Barcelona SME Market Connect brings together international customers, either directly, or through sales partners / distributors, and helps you navigate the export requirements and processes.

TORSA is a Spanish company specialized in designing and manufacturing high technological level solutions for mining , logistics, renewable energy, among other sectors. TORSA develops both own products and on demand in collaboration with clients From its various branches (Chile, Peru, México and South Africa), and its headquarters in the Technology Park of Andalusia, the largest technology hub in southern Europe, TORSA supports the company’s commercial and technical operations for the development of its range of solutions aimed at meeting needs and solving common problems in the various industries where its activity is focused.

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Amit Ray

Yinhla Women’s Foundation is a Non-Profit Organization that aims to educate and empower the previously disadvantaged women and children in the community of Acornhoek in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, in the province of Mpumalanga towards the province of Limpopo

PLP is a specialist Business Process Outsourcing business and is geared to deliver solutions that add real value to the lives of the empowered, always-connected consumer, while also maximising engagement and revenue for its clients The company is specifically focused on delivering outsourced contact centre services to Spanish, South African and Mauritian companies that want to reduce cost, improve efficiency and customer service and deal with a local global partner

The CRA is a leading South African think tank, that understands what drives the South African country’s political economy within the context of the broader international strategic environment Using a unique scenario planning methodology, the CRA works with organisations that want to anticipate long term risks and opportunities in order to thrive in a future South Africa Clients gain access to a range of digital products on the CRA website, including reports, briefings, videos, podcasts and whatsApp notes

Forwarding Network is a company that arose from the need for personalised services, and since its establishment in 1993, it has earned a reputation for being one of the most innovative and reliable freight clearing and forwarding companies with a staff complement that shares its commitment to deliver reliable, professional services of the highest standard

To review our MEMBERSHIP options, please click on the image.

"The more we increase the active participation and partnership with young people, the better we serve them, and the more comprehensively we work with them as service partners, the more we increase our public value to the entire community.”

Carmen Martinez

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA is pleased to extend a warm welcome the new interns from Spain that have recently joined the team The Chamber believes that every member of the team is an essential part of the growth and success of the organization, and we are confident that they will offer valuable skills and ideas to the table

MIKEL ECHEVARRIA

Greetings, my name is Mikel Echevarria Acha and I hail from Basauri, a town located near Bilbao I obtained a degree in Business Management from the University of Deusto, where I also completed the Program in Management Development, with a specialization in International Business

Over the course of my professional journey, I have gained a wealth of experience. One of my most cherished experiences was during my second year of study, where I worked alongside my father in his factory during the summer This experience taught me the value of hard work and money, as I learned firsthand the challenges of operating a factory.

Subsequently, I worked in a Volvo dealership, where I contributed in both administrative and commercial capacities. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic forced me to leave the dealership. I then worked as a risk analyst at Elkargi, followed by a role as a controller at Guardian Glass Services Finally, I worked as an administrative and consulting professional for a major UK firm at S2G Deloitte

Although I had specialized in International Business, none of my previous roles involved working in the international arena As a result, I searched for opportunities to gain international experience and found the BEINT scholarships - a program designed to support young individuals in internationalizing their careers After successfully completing the required assessments, I was awarded the BEINT scholarship in 2022

Thanks to the BEINT scholarship program, I now have the great privilege of working with the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South Africa, where I can finally fulfill my long-standing desire for international experience I aspire to learn from the cultural and operational differences between South Africa and Spain, and to continue growing both personally and professionally Moreover, I am keen to contribute to the chamber's growth and expansion

ISMAEL NICOLAY

Greetings to all the members and friends of the SCC. My name is Ismael, and I was born and raised in Donostia/San Sebastián As a person who thrives in collaborative environments, I enjoy participating in team-based activities and always strive to seek out new challenges that ameliorate my personal and professional growth.

I hold a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of the Basque Country, and following a year-long university exchange program in Mexico City, I recognized the importance of augmenting my engineering education with international experience

Subsequently, I had my first work experience in a food manufacturing company, more specifically, in the production chain I then worked in a civil engineering consulting firm where I performed different tasks, but most notably, I assisted in constructing a railway bridge in Donostia/San Sebastián, and then facilitated projects in management, the drawing of budgets, site visits and client consultations. This work experience complimented the theory and knowledge that I gained as an Engineering student

I always aspired to work abroad, hence I signed up for the BEINT Scholarship which granted me the opportunity to work in the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South Africa, alongside my Manager, Manuela Sanchez Aragu, my colleague who is also a fellow of the BEINT Scholarship, Mikel Echevarria Acha, and Priority Shikwambana, the South African intern at the Chamber I am looking forward to learning and gaining new experiences in this organisation, but also embracing the South African culture

Dónde estamos

AIR FRANCE INTRODUCES THEIR NEW BUSINESS CLASS CABINONTHEPARIS-JOHANNESBURGROUTE

AirFrance-KLM

From 26 March 2023, Air France will introduce their new Business class cabin on the Johannesburg Paris route The new 48 spacious seats in the cabin are based on the 3 “F”s: Full Flat, meaning that the seat transforms into a bed almost 2 meters long, full access, providing all passengers direct access to the aisle. Full Privacy ensures optimal privacy with a new sliding door which allows each passenger to create a totally private space

The seats located in the middle of the cabin have also been redesigned to also create a greater sense of privacy for passengers travelling together

These seats are equipped with a central panel which can be lowered so that a space is created whereby they can enjoy the flight together With a simple touch of a button, it is possible to adjust the seat recline as desired as well as the light intensity. A new ‘do not disturb’ feature is also available, informing the crew that the customer wishes to rest

BLUEBIZ

Rake your business travel to the next level with Bluebiz, the joint Corporate loyalty programme of Air France, KLM and Delta Airlines in South Africa

In line with its commitment to more responsible travel, Air France is for the first time providing a new comfort kit made of 93% recycled material The traditional plastic packaging has been removed in favour of an integrity seal By offering these eco-friendly kits, Air France is continuing its actions to limit the use of single-use plastic on board its flights whenever possible With attentive service, gourmet cuisine, carefully selected wine and champagne and a wide selection of in-flight entertainment, your journey can begin and we look forward to welcoming you on board

How does it work?

Earn blue credits on every flight you make on Air France, KLM, and Delta Air Lines. Once you have accumulated enough blue credits you can exchange them for tickets, upgrades and flightrelated services, such as a seat with extra legroom or extra baggage. In addition, travellers can personally earn Miles and blue credits for their company on the same ticket

To read more about the BlueBiz programme or sign up, please go to: www bluebiz com

Flying Blue Family:

Share the Miles of loved ones in your Flying Blue Family to travel together sooner. More Miles equals more time with your favourite people

Benefits of Flying Blue Family:

- Share your Miles to benefit from rewards faster

- Join a Flying Blue Family with many loved ones; up to eight Flying Blue members (max two adults and six children)

- Enjoy with no minimum amount of Miles required and at no cost

To read more, please go to: www.flyingblue.com

WHEN PARENTS GET DIVORCED, OUR CHILDREN ARE INEVITABLY STUCK IN THE WAR. SO HOW DO YOU NAVIGATE RELOCATING A MINOR CHILD WITH

ONE PARENTOUTSIDETHEBORDERSOFSOUTHAFRICA?

Is it possible and what did the Johannesburg High Court consider?

On the 19th of December 2022 Judge Mia in the case of D v D ruled that a minor child was allowed to relocate to Croatia with her father despite her mother still being in South Africa Now before you all jump to conclusions, we have to unpack the facts and the law applied in this case carefully as decisions by the courts made about children are not taken lightly as the courts are the upper guardians of children

Facts

The child is 13 years old, and her parents are about to start divorce proceedings The father of the child has found a job in Croatia (where he originates from and has family and friends). The father would like to relocate with his daughter and place her in a private school in Croatia

Prior to the matter being enrolled onto the urgent court, the child is sent to a social worker who spends time with the child to understand the child’s decision and what is in the best interest of the child.

The report is lengthy considering every aspect of the child’s life namely:

The child’s relationship with each parent;

The parenting style of each parent;

The personal relationship the child has with each parent;

The home and school life of the child;

The child’s relationship with extended family both in South Africa and Croatia;

How the child spends each day and the weekends; The type of lifestyle the child will be leading in the new country versus the child’s current lifestyle; More importantly, taking into consideration the child’s decision, whether the child wants to relocate (The Voice of The Child Report).

The Voice of The Child Report (written by the social worker) is then shared with the Office of the Family Advocate

The child and parents are then interviewed separately by the Family Advocate and a Family Counsellor appointed by the Family Advocate Both of them made further recommendations to the Court The judge has to take into consideration both the Voice of The Child Report and the Family Advocate’s recommendations when making a decision. In this case all the reports indicate the child’s wishes to relocate to Croatia Furthermore, all the reports recommendations state that the child has a secure emotional attachment with the father and the child experiences stability with the father The court further found that the child’s relationship with the mother was strained. It was held that the child remains with the parent with whom she has a secure relationship during the parents’ divorce proceedings It is fair to say that both parents interpersonal, social skills, parenting styles and financial considerations were carefully analyzed and scrutinized in the report and by judge Mia before making a lifechanging decision for the child. The judgement does not follow a specific precedent, but the judge held that; relocation matters must be decided on its own facts

There is no set procedure or list of requirements that must be compiled with for an application for relocation South African legislation does not set out a framework for such applications therefore each case must be decided on separately based on its own facts

SLKB Attorneys represented the father in this matter and instructed counsel to argue the matter in the Johannesburg High Court SLKB Attorneys ensured that this matter was carefully handled, and the attorney guided the client in each step of the process from obtaining the reports to understating the client and the child’s needs

To access the full judgement please click on this link:

Article written by Naadhirah Mayet a candidate attorney at SLKB Inc.

ALONGLIFEFORLIFELONGLEARNING

IESEBUSINESSSCHOOL

Those of us who work in education have much to celebrate Numerous studies have shown that the pace of technological change and the speed at which the world of work and society are evolving will require all of us to train and study throughout our lives

In our sector of management training, we are doubly convinced: we know that the companies and entrepreneurs that thrive are characterized by their ability to constantly adapt, based on continuous talent development And that it all starts with a solid base, with the ability to develop critical thinking and capacity for analysis, as well as the habits and values that prepare us to keep growing over time

But to manage what the future of work has in store for us, it’s no longer enough to periodically update the skills that we cultivated early in our lives We must switch to a mindset – and practice

of learning that will span the entirety of our lives

This is where lifelong learning comes in. It’s an educational approach which, supported by technology and new consumption habits of individuals, responds to the reality of non-stop change and to personal learning moments, be they professional or otherwise

HIGHLY PERSONAL. Lifelong learning represents an evolution in traditional training, until now based on shared pedagogical journeys, toward more personalized learning journeys for each person This shift carries with it a considerable increase in training opportunities on offer, and we as educational institutions will have to rise to the challenge of understanding the needs of each individual and guiding them toward the type of training they need in every moment of their professional development Sometimes those needs will be structured and will correspond to a knowledge set similar to what today comprises a course – the basics of corporate finance, for example – but other times those needs will be more specific –such as how to read a balance sheet or prepare a pitch for investors Lifelong learning must be capable of answering to these differing levels of depth and immediacy

DIGITAL… OR NOT. Lifelong learning is strongly linked to the trend of consuming content on demand, but this does not mean that all continuous learning must be done in digital formats.

The true potential of lifelong learning will be fulfilled when we’re able to take advantage of the full power of artificial intelligence and big data to curate content and resolve individually the wide variety of training needs that people may face over the course of their lives.

Algorithms are already able to identify with a large degree of precision the gaps in curriculum vitae in talent selection processes. Why not take advantage of the potential of this same technology to take a step further and start recommending training for the next professional challenge? Recommendations could take a wide range of formats: from completely virtual and pre-prepared content designed for asynchronous individual learning, to totally in-person and tailored options, such as coaching sessions or discussions with peers in a sector-based forum

MULTI-FORMAT LEARNING. In this new context, classic training represented by programs that tend to be longer and more structured will continue to play a key role in the development of executive and professional education. At the same time, this will co-exist with other formats, often times more brief and intense, oriented toward concrete or specific needs according to the career moment. The success of lifelong learning lies in the coexistence of formats and in being able to design concrete plans on when and what is useful to learn at each moment. We know that an early-career professional does not have the same needs as a mid-career executive, or a person jumping sectors as someone taking on a new role in the same company. We won’t want the same types of training solutions when we are travelling or working remotely as when we have the possibility of meeting with other people

Just like all the big changes that digital transformation has brought, lifelong learning will require time for everyone –educational institutions, suppliers, platforms and even learners themselves – to grow accustomed to it

Regardless, lifelong learning will exist alongside traditional training and will enrich it -- and it’s here to stay Long live lifelong learning!

This article was originally published by Franz Heukamp on January 10, 2023, on LinkedIn.

South Africa: How to Apply for a Business Visa

IBN INMIGRATION SOLUTIONS

What is the Business Visa?

The Business Visa is not for your business travel. It’s for the people who want to start a business here, want to own a business, purchase of business, or work in the business We could also call it Entrepreneurial Visa, or the Investor Visa, but we stick to the technical term Business Visa It’s important to understand that we have done a lot of them, and I do think it’s very important to choose an immigration company which has vast experience of understanding the businesses and therefore compiling the applications correctly

What are the legal requirements to qualify for Business Visa in South Africa?

Well, there are basically two only If you start a new business, you’re supposed to invest more than 5 million South African Rand into the book value of the business. This money needs to come from overseas, so you cannot approach a local South African bank for it The second requirement is that 50% of your workforce needs to be local, meaning South African citizens or permanent resident holders. If you as a foreigner work in it, ideally you have another two employees that are local These are the only two requirements

Sounds simple, isn’t it? Yes, sounds simple But in practice, obviously, it’s a bit trickier than that And I want to explain now in the next probably three, four or five minutes, the requirements in-depth and a couple of red flags and practical challenges we face every day when we do these Business Visas

What sector must the business be in?

The good news is that unlike Mauritius, for instance, or other African nations, you can start any business in any sector in South Africa There are three sectors free businesses are prohibited, but in 20 years I’ve never found a client who wanted to start in them, so I’m not going to mention them So, in principle, you’re not limited, or you’re not prescribed a certain sector where you need to start your business

What are the steps to apply?

The other important part is that there are two to three steps really depending on how much money you have The first step is always to apply for a recommendation letter from the Department of Trade and Industry. That’s step number one. Number two could be potentially to apply at the Department of Home Affairs This is very, very, very high chance that if the Business Visa gets approved and even your waiver, step number two and three will be positive As a matter of fact, I never had, after positive DTI recommendation, the waiver or the business visa rejected

The DTI is the crucial application. What does the DTI want? They want to understand the business plan If you’re buying an existing business, it’s easier because you have financial statements You have customer reports, numbers, etc. But if you want to start a new business, they want to understand your business needs This needs to be at least a short business plan and we would incorporate this business plan in the application form of the DTI

Then you need to also show the availability of the funds As I said, in principle, you need to invest more than 5 million Rand into the book value of the business Internationally, that’s quite a lot Mauritius is $50,000USD, Kenya is $100,000USD I think maybe the South African government should rethink this figure and lower it, but now, the 5 million stands and the crucial point is really the availability

We have a lot of clients, private clients, who want to sell the house overseas first, and the transfer needs to go through and they’re going to ask me, “Can I use the binding legal sales agreement because that’s binding as available funds?” The answer is no you cannot, the money needs to be available

You can of course use a loan overseas because South Africa is interested in foreign direct investment They are only interested in the 5 million coming from overseas: from outside South Africa into South Africa This also answers the typical question, “Can I take a local loan?” You can’t: it doesn’t count as foreign direct investment Ideally, it’s available in cash.

Using business capital as investment

In practice, there’s a couple of hurdles Let’s imagine you are founder of a company in Europe The company is 20 years old and it’s doing very well Now the company wants to invest in South Africa, not you as the founder and your private capacity, but the company The good news is that the DTI is quite lenient towards this scenario If you can prove that you are the founder of the investing company, or a majority shareholder, or you have a controlling interest in it, then they will deem the investment by the company from overseas as your private investments in Africa and you as the individual can apply for the Business Visa Obviously, your company don’t need a Business Visa in South Africa; you need it because you’re the foreigner living here

Business Visa and start-ups

We struggle sometimes with start-ups. Typically, a founder has a great idea They put in sweat equity, but then they’re financed by third parties, VCs, etc – that’s a problem now with a DTI We’re in constant negotiations and discussions

I cannot always speak badly about the DTI at all They are always open for arguments; they stand to certain positions which we need to accept They are mostly based on reason and a certain portion of goodwill The DTI is interested in you investing in South Africa and I like this general positive attitude But there is a problem potentially for third-party funding for the main applicant

Availability of funds

The availability of the funds must be confirmed by a South African chartered accountant, not by a German Wirtschaftsprüfer, a South African chartered accountant We work with one or two who have vast experience and strongly recommend that you use our chartered accountant In practice, we have a lot of clients who want to use their own accountant and then they do something wrong, and we have problems afterwards. Now the chartered accountant’s certificate and a couple of other documents will be sent to the DTI They take about two months, sometimes faster, and then hopefully approve the application and issue their recommendation letter.

With that recommendation letter, you can then move on to step two If you have invested more than 5 million Rand into the book value of the business, there is no step two: you don’t need the waiver or lower the capital requirement But if you invest less then you need to apply at the Department of Home Affairs. That can be through the South African mission or through a local VFS office here in South Africa for reduction of the 5 million That waiver application can take up to six months Yes, you heard right – we want to invest in South Africa and the DTI takes two months and the DHA takes six months We are very welcoming to foreign investors, but these delays make it difficult Apparently, everybody has time to wait for 12 months to invest in South Africa So that’s a problem I hope it’s going to be reduced at some stage, maybe somebody is listening to these videos and puts this change forward Six months is too long for a waiver

The last step is really to apply for the Business Visa itself You will need lots of private documents like all the other immigration permits or visas into South Africa Then you submit that at the South African mission in your country of residence and their processing times vary between two and eight weeks. In total, you can look at 9 months or 10 months, so that’s too long, especially if you need this waiver Ideally, we would like to circumvent the waiver

Do I have to follow my business plan?

The other important questions I always get asked is, “What if I say in the business plan, I want to do this and this and that and I can’t stick to it or I wanted to invest 6 million, but the business already was flying after 3 million in investments. What about my other 3 million? Do I need to deliver on the promise I made in the DTI application?” For the first three years you get the Business Visa issued it doesn’t really matter You need to create employment, that’s for sure, but when you want to apply for permanent residence, or for an extensionof the Business Visa, you need the recommendation letter from the DTI and then the DTI will actually check what have you done.

If there were good reasons why the business did so much better that you didn’t need all the investment, you can argue this and show it in the numbers and financial statements, and then they’re open to the to the argument But obviously if you say you’re going to invest 10 million in the tourism sector and you’re going to invest 1 million into a consulting business that’s not going to fly for renewal?

Other countries in the world are very, very similar You can’t completely change your intentions, but nevertheless, be aware that the enforcement of your plan plays a role when you want to renew, or extend, or apply for permanent residence

Overall, it’s a good concept. It takes a little bit too long now, but it is viable route, and we would be glad and happy to help I have a team of two experts that have done numerous Business Visas over the last 10 years, so we know what we’re doing! please reach out to us if you have any questions and thank you very much

How IBN Immigration Solutions can help you

IBN Immigration Solutions has assisted numerous clients in successfully receiving their Business Visa and would love to assist you too! We are familiar with all the requirements for applications, possible red-flags, and hold-ups with the government’s immigration department, meaning that you’ll be in safe hands

TORSAGLOBALLAUNCH

On 14 February 2023, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa was pleased to attend the launch of a new member, TORSA at the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa in Johannesburg

A breakfast panel discussion was conducted to successfully launch TORSA, a Spanish company that specializes in intuitive mine monitoring and complete logistics solutions The panel unpacked the cultural transformation that the mining industry is undergoing through the adoption of technology , which has positive effects for the industry's compliance with legal requirements, health, safety, and convenience

In the words of Ignacio Agramunt, (International Expansion Executive, TORSAGlobal) (ex- Chief Innovation Officer, Minas Buenaventura Peru), the three main factors to consider are

GEOLOGY, TECHNOLOGY

and

PEOPLE

The guests were addressed by Jose Manuel Pascual (Deputy Chief Mission at the Embassy of Spain in South Africa), followed by Isaac Martín-Barbero (Chief Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Oficina Económica y Comercial de la Embajada de España en Sudáfrica), as well as Mariano Barroso Pidal (President & Founder of TORSA)

Ms Chrisna Evans, Associate Director, Smart Mining at PwC South Africa, Mr Sudipto Moitra , General Manager, Business Solution at MTN South Africa, Ms Zinathi Gquma, TV anchor at BusinessDay, Mrs Lili Nupen Mining and Environmental Law Specialist, Director, and Co-founder at NSDV, and Mr Ignacio Agramunt, International Expansion Executive, TORSA Global, ex- Chief Innovation Officer, Minas Buenaventura Peru

Moderated by BusinessDay TV anchor, Zinathi Gquma, the panel members whom shared insight and knowledge on the various sub-divisions in the mining industry comprised of;

Chrisna Evans (Associate Director, Smart Mining at PwC South Africa). Sudipto Moitra (General Manager, Business Solution at MTN South Africa)

Ignacio Agramunt (International Expansion Executive, TORSA Global) (exChief Innovation Officer, Minas Buenaventura Peru).

Lili Nupen (Mining and Environmental Law Specialist, Director, and Cofounder at NSDV)

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa would like to commend TORSA for the successful launch of its offices in South Africa, which is the launchpad into the African continent We are delighted to witness the great contribution that smart technology will have on the development of the mining industry in South Africa

Mr Marcos Pelegrin, President at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA and Managing Director at LaLiga Africa, Ms Zinathi Gquma, Business News Acnhor at BusinessDay TV

SCCAWARDS&GALADINNER2023

In honouring the members of the Chamber and the work that they do, a Golden Lion Company Award and a Golden Lion Professional Award were awarded that night Acciona, S A a Spanish multinational conglomerate specialized in infrastructure construction and management as well as renewable energy, was awarded with the Golden Lion Company, in honouring and acknowledging the spectacular work that is done in the renewable energy sector.

Mr Unai Bravo, Managing Director of Acciona expressed gratitude for the award, and exclaimed that the challenges currently faced with electricity generation in South Africa are indeed a pressing issue, but simultaneously present an opportunity for growth and expansion into new energy solutions.

Mr Bravo also stated that Acciona’s objective is to grow further over the next 20 years in South Africa, as the government of Spain has recently approved a provision of aid of 2115 million euros for Spanish investments in the next 5 years

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA expresses its appreciation and admiration for Acciona’s dedication to developing innovative and sustainable energy solutions, and the commitment to creating a greener future is both commendable and necessary.

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA successfully hosted the annual Awards & Gala Dinner on 17 February 2023, at the Bryanston Country Club This gala dinner is one of the major events in the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA calendar

The event was proudly endorsed by the Embassy of Spain in Pretoria, and sponsored by CaixaBank (PLATINUM), The Learning Initiative (PLATINUM), Secured Enterprise (PLATINUM), Columbus Stainless (Pty) Ltd (GOLD), and Mazars (SILVER)

Mr Marcos Pelegrin, President at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA H E Raimundo Robredo Rubio, Ambassador at Embassy of Spain in Pretoria

Mr Pedro Viudez, Chief Executive Officer at Habsburg Group Limited, Mrs Tshepo Ncube, Managing Director, Head: International Client Coverage at Absa, Mr Marcos Pelegrin, Managing Director at LaLiga Africa, Mr Unai Bravo, Managing Director at Acciona, Mr Ramiro Sebastiao, Chief Respresentatoive Officer at CaixaBank, Mr Isaac Martin-Barbero, Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor at Spanish Economic and Commercial office, Embassy of Spain in South Africa, Mr Mario Inchausti, Managing Director at Inventta, Mr Eduardo Areques Esteve, Director at Casa Lejana International (Pty) Ltd and Mr Luis Blanco, Head Project Manager at Almar Water,

The impact of climate change is undeniable, and it is clear that we must take immediate action to mitigate its effects. To date, Acciona’s efforts to harness the power of renewable energy sources are a critical step in the right direction By investing in research and development, and by producing clean and reliable energy solutions, the company is making a significant contribution to the collective efforts to protect the environment and reduce our carbon footprint.

Mr Johan Strydom, Chief Executive Officer at Columbus Stainless (Pty) Ltd, was acknowledged with the Gold Lion Professional Service Award The Gold Lion Professional Service Award recognizes an individual who has made a noteworthy and farreaching impact in both their business and community The recipient is someone who demonstrates qualities such as innovation, professionalism, honesty, and integrity, and has also made substantial contributions to the Spanish Chamber of Commerce over a period of time

Mr

Spanish Chamber

Limited, Ms

Commerce RSA, Mrs

Ncube, Managing Director, Head: International Client Coverage at Absa, Mr Ramiro Sebastiao Chief Respresentatoive Officer at CaixaBank Mr Marcos Pelegrin, Managing Director at LaLiga Africa, Mr Johan Strydom, Chief Executive Officer at Columbus Stainless (Pty) Ltd, Mr Mario Inchausti, Managing Director at Inventta, Mr Eduardo Areques Esteve, Director at Casa Lejana International (Pty) Ltd, Mr Luis Blanco, Head Project Manager at Almar Water, and Mr Isaac Martin-Barbero, Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor at Spanish Economic Commercial office, Embassy of Spain in South Africa

Mr Strydom having worked for Columbus Stainless Steel (Pty)Ltd for 27 years, expressed his gratitude to the Spanish community that has invested in South Africa, and has walked the journey with him to developing the Steel Industry in South Africa The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA expresses its sincerest gratitude to its member companies for the outstanding contributions to the successful hosting of this year's Awards & Gala Dinner 2023

The gala dinner event was a huge success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the team members The event was attended by 130 guests from the International Trade & Development industry The feedback received from them was overwhelmingly positive The guests appreciated the attention to detail, the quality of food, the decor, and the overall ambiance of the event The team members received a lot of praise from the guests for their professionalism, teamwork, and cando attitude

Pedro Viudez, Chief Executive Officer at Habsburg Group

Manuela Sanchez Aragu,

of

Tshepo

Learning to Lead: The Energy Workshop

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, was honoured to co-organize an energy workshop with the SwissCham Southern Africa (lead organizer), alongside the Belgian Chamber of Commerce for Southern Africa (BCCSA), Italian South African Chamber Of Trade And Industries (ItalCham), and the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FSACCI)

The purpose of this workshop was to encourage all the Chambers and their members for the upcoming year and the work and commitment it will involve The Lockdown imposed during the Covid19 outbreak disrupted many organizations, particularly small firms. The Energy Workshop at Learning to Lead provides knowledge that is relevant to where we are in a world of rising fast change Learning to Lead has implemented an Energy Measurement Process that allows us to measure energy at three levels: personal, organizational, and leadership energy, with a final report that provides invaluable insight into current energy levels, future priorities, and challenges within teams in various organizations

Colin Hall , Learning to Lead Corporate facilitator, and Steve Hall, Learning to Lead Facilitator both addressed the attendees, and presented innovative solutions to coping with the evolving nature of the business environment, as well as the world essentially

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the SwissCham Southern Africa for the great initiative to host such an intuitive event that prepared us for the year, and equally thank the Belgian Chamber of Commerce for Southern Africa (BCCSA), Italian South African Chamber Of Trade And Industries (ItalCham), and the FSACCI French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FSACCI) for facilitating, co-hosting and involving their respective members in the event.

Mr Steve Hall, Facilitator at Learning to Lead, Ms Priority Shikwambana, International Trade Officer Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, Mr Colin Hall, Lead Facilitator at Learning to Lead, Mr Mikel Echevarria, International Trade Advisor Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, and Mr Ismael Nicolay, International Trade Advisor Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA

Mr Grant Hagedorn-Hansen- Nordic South African Business Association, , Ms Pamina Bohrer, Secretary General at the Italian Chamber SA, Mr Steve Hall, Facilitator at Learning to Lead, Ms Margaux Schaubroeck, Head of Events, Communication & Marketing at French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Ms Claudine Vandenabeele, General Manager at Belgian Chamber of Commerce for Southern Africa, Mrs Evelyn Ralphs ,General Manager at SwissCham Southern Africa - South Africa Chapter,Mr Colin Hall, Lead Facilitator at Learning to Lead, Ms Priority Shikwambana, International Trade Officer Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, Ms Erwanne Meilhoc, General Manager at French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr Ismael Nicolay International Trade Advisor Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, and Mr Mikel Echevarria, International Trade Advisor Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA

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The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa, expresses its sincere gratitude to the EU Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Southern Africa, the 12 European Union Chambers, as well as their members for the successful partnership and involvement in hosting this event.

On the 13th of February 2023, Wesgro held a breakfast in Cape Town in collaboration with 12 European Union Chamber of Commerces, Trade Commissions, and their respective diplomatic officials and member companies The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa, had the privilege to co-host the event alongside them

Present at the event was Wrenelle Stander (the CEO of Wesgro), Geordin Hill-Lewis (Cape Town Mayor), Her Excellency Sandra Kramer (The EU’s ambassador to SA), Geordin Hill-Lewis (Cape Town Mayor), Mireille Wenger (Western Cape MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities) and Alan Winde (Western Cape Premier), whom all agreed that the trade relations between the European Union (EU) and the Western Cape province are expected to strengthen in correlation with the demand for renewable energy increases; as the European Union is the largest trading partner of South Africa with more than 1 000 European companies that create 350 000 jobs, thanks to the Foreing Direct Investment

The Western Cape government is known as the region with the less carbon emissions in South Africa, thus aiming to be the main ecological hub of the country. In order to achieve this, the province aims to attract investment towards green energy and strive to have a sustainable and reliable energy system as the country is experiencing an energy crisis, which in the end is considered as the biggest threat to the economy On a positive and exciting note, this crisis presents an opportunity for investment and collaboration “The crisis, however, has most certainly been the catalyst for innovation”, said Wrenelle Stander, the CEO of Wesgro “Right now, we are seeing unique, multi-year opportunities emerging right here in our province driven by international shifts to clean energy; geopolitics; the loadshedding crisis in South Africa; and importantly, policy reforms in the energy space in South Africa” Stander further stated

Europe is one of the continents in the world that actively invests in green energy and so, the EU intends to contribute 1 billion of 8.5 billion funding package to facilitate projects in decarbonating South Africa and move towards sustainable development Essentially, the energy crisis in South Africa, has opened a gap in the market to invest in renewable energy as it is considered as a clean, innovative and futuristic solution to the ongoing crisis

“The EU has invested more into renewable energy in the Western Cape than into any other sector With recent policy shifts to open the energy market to private investment, investment into clean energy technologies is expected to increase exponentially. This, in turn, of course, supports the achievement of much needed energy security”, Stander stated Stander further emphasised that the Western Cape government embarked on a journey more than a decade ago to implement the basic elements to promote investment in a more ecological economy

Furthermore, the mayor of Cape Town Geordin Hill-Lewis highlighted that it is the government role to create propitious environments in order to attract investment and also for the companies thrive In this matter, he addressed that the city is doing everything it can to make it possible for reaching the energy security and to attract all this investment to the city

But the revenues do not only come from the energy sector and the renewables As Wenger declared “We are also proud to be a destination of choice for travellers from Europe, with 7 out of the top 10 source markets to Cape Town originating from the continent I look forward to building on and strengthening our relations, as we work together on our strategic priorities, to ensure that we continue to improve the lives of our peoples”

Finally, The Prime Minister of Western Cape, Alan Winde, stated that to be able to attract more investment, to boost the energy security is crucial as companies need stable environment to establish their offices and businesses in one region and also, political and energy security As Winde said “What is this province? The Cape of Good Hope. The Western Cape is South Africa’s province of hope What does it mean for business? Businesses are not only looking at the city, but beyond The whole province is full of opportunity. The energy crisis presents great opportunity”

In addition, the EU’s ambassador in South Africa, Her Excellency Sandra Kramer, stated that the bilateral relations between EU and South Africa have maintained in the last years a strong growth “Of course, the situation could be even better, with more investments and more job creation, specifically in the green and digital areas that have now become the focus of the world transition towards a greener and digital economy with more policy certainty, a smoother visa regime, security and – above all – access to reliable, resilient and sustainable energy” Kramer said

In summary, there is a willingness to invest in the Western Cape region's green energy sector by the EU and its companies However, there is still few challenges to solve, e g , loadshedding The willingness is there, and when those challenges are eovercome, Cape Town and the Western Cape will be the major HUB for green energy in South Africa

On the other hand, Mireille Wenger, Western Cape MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities, said that the region and the EU have a long history of collaboration carried by economic, trade, investment, and tourism ties The 34,15% of the foreign direct investment projects of the region in 2022 comes from the EU, that is why both of the regions maintain such a solid relations In 2021, the exports of Western Cape to EU increased 13,24% which it resulted in a surplus of about R4 040 billion going from R30 530 billion on 2020 to R34 570 billion on 2021 In the same way, the imports increased in approximately R11 530 billion, from R34 960 billion in 2020 to R46 490 billion in 2021

Data extracted from wesgro co za

Ms Mogani Wynne-Dyke, Head Global Corporates Coastal Region at ABSA (Western Cape), Carin Kotze, Area Client Manager (Non-Resident & Embassy Banking) at NEDBANK Western Cape, Ms Manuela Sanchez Aragu, Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, Mrs Elelwani Pandelani, Head of Non-Resident & Embassy Banking at Nedbank, Mrs Sibongile Luvuno Arques-Esteve, Director at CLinternational, Ms Debbie Mayes, Sales Marketing Manager at Embassy Direct

LUNCHEON WITH THE CRA: “SOUTH AFRICA’S THIRD AGE” AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT POLITICAL AND ECONOMICAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE UPCOMING TRENDS.

On the 2nd March 2023, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA was pleased and honoured to attend a Luncheon hosted by the Swiss Chamber in Southern Africa (South Africa Chapter) and the Centre for Risk and Analysis (CRA), at the Country Club Johannesburg in Woodmead, with the purpose of having an indepth analysis of the present state of affairs as well as future prospects for South Africa South Africa’s Third Age.

Mr Chris Hattingh, the Head of Policy Analysis, presented the CRA's Strategic Intelligence Briefing Hattingh's excellent delivery kept the audience captivated as he discussed the country's challenges and presented fascinating research with welldocumented scenarios The energy crisis was a prominent theme that affects all aspects of the economy, notably the employment status, financial status and political education, and social policies of the country

Mr Hattingh further emphasized that the current energy crisis in South Africa is contributing to rising inflation and putting pressure on the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates, which has a major impact on the private sector, highlighting the challenges facing businesses in terms of maintaining operations and meeting customer demand. This poses great anticipation for the results of the upcoming South African government elections in 2024

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA was very pleased to be part of an event with valuable insights into the current state of the country and what may be in store in the near future, as the Chamber is now fully capacitated and empowered to assist its members in their business operations

Mr Chris Hattingh Head of Policy Analysis - Centre for Risk and Analysis (CRA)

Ms Priority Shikwambana International Trade Officer InternSpanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, Mr Chris Hattingh Head of Policy Analysis - Centre for Risk and Analysis (CRA), Mr Sherwin Van Blerk, Chief Operating Officer-Centre for Risk and Analysis (CRA), and Ms Manuela Sánchez Aragú- Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA

Mr Chris Hattingh Head of Policy Analysis - Centre for Risk and Analysis (CRA), Mr Kay Schroder, Vice President at Swiss Chamber in Southern Africa (South Africa Chapter)

MULTI-CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENT - JOHANNESBURG

On 8 March 2023, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA successfully co-hosted a Multi-Chamber Speed Networking event at the Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club, which was spearheaded by the South African Portuguese Chamber Of Commerce, partnering the Belgian Chamber of Commerce for Southern Africa, Business Ireland South Africa, European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Southern Africa, French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Italian South African Chamber of Trade and Industries.

The event was attended by business professionals from various sectors and industries, including finance, marketing, technology, and more. The primary objective of the event was to facilitate business networking among the attendees and create opportunities for collaboration and growth. The event was open to both members and non-members of the chambers, and the guests had the opportunity to exchange business cards and connect with each other Many attendees connected with each other and exchanged business cards, and were served with finger food

This event served as an excellent and economical platform to broaden networks, potentially discovering new business prospects, meeting possible partners and clients, and connecting with resources or service providers in various industries.

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA would like to express its warm gratitude to the South African Portuguese Chamber Of Commerce for this great initiative, as well as the partnering Chambers that co-hosted this great event which provided a platform for business professionals from various sectors and industries to connect and collaborate The event was an excellent opportunity for attendees to expand their networks, learn from experts, and explore potential business opportunities

THE EDUCATION REVOLUTION PROGRAMME: THINK EQUAL

On 20 April 2023, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce succesfully hosted a breakfast seminar at the Italian Club Johannesburg, Setebello restaurant, "The Education Revolution Programme" with Leslie Edwin, founder and leader of a Non-Government Organisation (NGO) called Think Equal, that caries out incredibly powerful and effective work across 23 countries, on empowering young children who will be instrumental in creating a fairer and more empowered world in the future

The founder of this program, Leslee Udwin who is also a former filmmaker, has been awarded the United Nation Women for Peace Prize award

This great education program targets 3-6 year old children whom are at the developing stage, and teaches Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) both from a psycho-social and also a social justice view This Programme maintains that education is the only solution that will begin to change the attitude of disregarding the richness of diversity going forward - the way to do it is by teaching our young ones from the foundational phase (ages of 3 – 6). It is also a compelling Covid-19 response, and preventative of discrimination, inequality and violence This program is being run successfully across the globe and in some regions in South Africa but extending it to all regions in South Africa will impact a much larger population and will yield great results in the long term

William Kennedy, a leader of the United Nations Global Partnerships Office, has the following to say about Think Equal, ‘Every once in a while one comes across a non-profit leader and campaign that can actually change the world for the better and at a scale that is required in a generation The vision, work and traction that Leslee Udwin and the Think Equal Campaign is getting is one of those exceptional outliers that everyone everywhere should get behind'

There was a great prizes offered to one of the attendees by SA Airline.

Ms Aurora Carbonel de Barnola, the Consule at the Embassy of Spain in South Africa in Pretoria exclaimed thatshe was very honoured to be present at an event where critical ideas and initiatives were being discussed as an investment in the future of young generations

Ms Leslee Udwin- Founder & Executive Chair at Think Equal

Mrs Aurora Carbonel de Barnola, Consul at the Embassy of Spain in South Africa in Pretoria, Mr Andrew Chinnah, Chief Vision Officer at BUA NPC, Ms Carla da Silva, Executive Manager, Sales & Marketing at SA Airlink

"THE POWER OF LIFELONG LEARNING FOR SENIOR EXECUTIVES- IESE BUSINESS SCHOOL

On 18 April 2023, The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa in collaboration with IESE Business School recently held a successful seminar in which senior executives from various industries attended, at Knightsbridge Conference Centre, Bryanston, Johannesburg

The seminar discussed the importance of lifelong learning for senior executives and management and how it has helped them adapt to the dynamic environment we live in and stay competitive in the business world The reputable speakers in this seminar highlighted the different approaches and strategies that senior executives can use to continue learning and developing their skills throughout their careers

The key takeaways from the event follow hereunder:

The Need for Continuous Learning:

The keynote speakers emphasized the need for senior executives to engage in continuous learning in a technological environment that is constantly changing Business leaders need to keep up with the latest developments and trends in their industries Learning new skills and acquiring knowledge is critical for personal and professional growth

Learning Approaches:

The keynote speakers also discussed different approaches to learning, such as formal education, self-directed learning, and onthe-job learning While formal education provides structured learning opportunities, self-directed learning allows executives to tailor their learning to their specific needs and interests On-the-job learning involves learning by doing and taking on new challenges in and outside the workplace

Collaborative Learning:

Collaboration with peers and experts was also highlighted as an effective way to learn The speakers emphasised the importance of building a global network of professionals and experts to exchange knowledge and insights Peer-to-peer learning can be particularly useful in developing new ideas and finding solutions to complex issues

Lifelong Learning Mindset:

The seminar stressed the importance of developing a lifelong learning mindset Senior executives need to be open to new ideas, willing to experiment, and embrace failure as an opportunity to learn This mindset is critical for staying competitive and relevant in today's fast-changing business environment.

The evening ended with networking amongst business leaders and some great Spanish cuisine

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa extends gratitude to its members and friends, as well as the IESE Business School alumni for engaging in this great initiative

Mr Lincoln Mali, CEO of Lesaka Technologies, Prof Heinrich Liechtenstein, Professor at IESE Business School, Ms Loueen Blunden, COO at American Tower, Mr Ermias Mengistu, Director (Africa Initiative) at IESE Business School

Mr Ermias Mengistu,Director (Africa Initiative) at IESE Business School and H E Raimundo Robredo Rubio, Ambassador of the Embassy of Spain in Pretoria

INVESTOR ADVISORY

"CONNECTING CONTINENTS: EXPLORING THE ROUTES OF TRADE BETWEEN SOUTH AFRICA AND SPAIN"?

Priority Shikwambana | International Trade Officer Intern at Spanish Chamber of CommerceinRSA

Trade and commerce between both South Africa and Spain has been a critical part of the bilateral relationship with the two countries, establishing and strengthening significant economic ties throughout the years Both countries have engaged in commerce in a variety of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, mining and renewable energy . This piece aims to outline the trading routes between South Africa and Spain, as well as the goods traded and the challenges encountered along the way Prospective investors may find this data interesting since it gives a glimpse at the potential of investing in the trade relationship between South Africa and Spain

Fully understanding trade routes, commodities transported, and challenges encountered can assist investors in identifying possible areas of investment and making wise decisions going forward Investors specializing in the mining industry, for example, may be interested in South Africa's mineral exports to Spain, whilst those interested in agriculture may be more active in the trade in wine, fruits, and vegetables. Furthermore, understanding the obstacles in the trade connection, such as the costs of transportation, sometimes licences required and the state of the economy, may allow investors to prepare and reduce risks.

Historical Context: South Africa-Spain Trade Relations

The South African-Spanish trade relationship dates back to the colonial era. In the late 15th century, Spain became one of the initial European countries to establish relations with South Africa with its merchants and missionaries

The two countries' earliest recorded trade occurred in the 17th century, when Spain imported South African wine The two nations' connection grew further, with South Africa exporting gold, diamonds, and other resources to Spain South Africa's apartheid regime resulted in trade restrictions imposed by the global order, including Spain, in the twentieth century Nonetheless, commerce between the two countries resumed during South Africa's democratic transition in 1994, when trade liberalization was embraced, and Spain emerged as one of South Africa's primary commercial partners in Europe

Connecting Continents: Routes of Trade

Valencia, Barcelona, and Algeciras are the major harbours for South African shipments to Spain, and these harbours are key entry points for South African wine, fruits, and vegetables, as well as minerals

The air route is particularly crucial since many South African businesses fly their goods to Spain The main departure locations for these exports are the O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and the Cape Town International Airport

RESEARCH

INVESTOR ADVISORY

Connecting Commodities: Goods Traded

Spain is the recipient of a variety of South African exports, including minerals, wine, fruits, and vegetables The main exports to Spain in 2020, as per information from the South African Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition comprised of: Diamonds and precious metals (39 5%) , Minerals (13 5%) , Beverages (10 8%) Chemicals (6 1%) and Primary metals (5 5%)

In addition, Spain exports a range of goods to South Africa, including chemicals, textiles, equipment, and vehicles The top exports to South Africa in 2020, according to information from the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism comprised of: Automobiles (17 2%), Mechanical devices and equipment (13.5%) , Chemical products (8.4%), Polymers and products made of them (6 7%), and medicinal products (6 2%)

www.alamy.com

Challenges

Like the conduct of business in every other sector and countries, the routes of trade between South Africa and Spain are not without challenges. Trade operations have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused delays in supply and decreased demand for various products Moreover, South Africa's political unrest and economic unpredictability have caused currency rates to fluctuate, which may have an impact on trade activity profitability.

The high expense of transportation due to the Covid Pandemic (changing of containers, combining routes to save costs), and the great distance between the two countries is another obstacle

The challenges posed can be overcome through extensive research and consultation with industry experts in the International Trade & Development sector Moreover, Spain and South Africa’s trade relations have undergone a major shift over the years, with trade activity growing in a number of industries The primary trading routes between the two countries have been very instrumental in promoting economic activity

Are you eager to embark on a journey of intellectual curiosity and discovery?

Please be on the lookout for the forthcoming articles and think-pieces of insightful analysis and informative articles on key topics and issues in the International Trade and Development industry Prepare to be enthralled and enlightened as you engage with our professional and informative content, which will be available on our website, and social media platforms

"Deep Mining Technologies: Innovations and Concepts fortheIntelligentMineoftheFutureinEuropeandSouth Africa"

Ismael Nicolay

| International Trade Advisor

Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce in RSA

The mining industry is a significant contributor to the economies in both Europe and South Africa However, with the depletion of shallow deposits, mining companies are increasingly turning to deeper, more complex ore bodies. Deep mining presents unique challenges, including increased pressure, temperature, and rock stress, as well as greater ventilation and cooling requirements. To address these challenges, mining companies are developing new technologies and concepts for intelligent mining in the future. This research article aims to compare and contrast deep mining technologies being developed in Europe and South Africa, and assess their potential to improve in safety, efficiency, and sustainability

Herewith are some innovative technologies and concepts that are being developed and implemented for the intelligent deep mine of the future:

•Automation: Mining companies are increasingly improving safety and productivity through automation Autonomous drilling rigs, haul trucks, and other vehicles are becoming more common in the mining industry, reducing the need for human intervention and minimizing the risk of accidents

•Digitalization: The use of digital technologies such as sensors, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more prevalent in the mining industry These technologies enable real-time monitoring and analysis of mining operations, allowing for faster decision-making and greater efficiency

•Advanced exploration techniques: New exploration techniques such as 3D modeling, drone surveys, and satellite imaging are being used to identify and map mineral deposits more accurately and efficiently

•Renewable energy: Mining companies are exploring renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability.

•Deep learning: Deep learning is a subset of artificial intelligence that enables computers to learn from data and improve their performance over time. This technology is being applied in the mining industry to optimize mining operations and improve efficiency

•Modular mining: Modular mining involves breaking down the mining process into smaller, more manageable components This allows mining companies to more easily adapt to changes in demand and optimize their operations for maximum efficiency

According to a report published by the European Commission in 2019, the European mining sector security technologies focus on improving safety for workers and environmental sustainability On the other hand, the South African mining sector security technologies prioritize asset protection, crime prevention, and surveillance

In South Africa, many companies have started implementing environmental management systems, and have invested in technologies and practices aimed at reducing their environmental impact. For example, some companies have introduced water recycling systems to reduce water usage, and have implemented energy efficiency measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adhere to environmental regulations

Outlined hereunder, are some key differences between the security technologies used in the European and South African mining sectors, along with relevant data:

1. Worker Safety:

In the European mining sector, safety for workers is a primary concern. European mining companies use advanced technologies like drones, robotics, and automated machinery to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries to workers. According to Eurostat, the EU's statistical office, the number of fatal accidents in the EU's mining sector decreased from 142 in 2005 to 34 in 2018, indicating the success of these technologies.

Mining companies in South Africa have also taken steps to improve worker safety Many companies have implemented safety management systems, and have increased their investment in safety training and education Some companies have also introduced innovative technologies and practices to improve safety, such as the use of remotecontrolled equipment and automated ventilation systems.

2. Environmental Sustainability:

The European mining sector is also focused on reducing the environmental impact of mining operations. Technologies such as the GPS and mapping software are used to minimize the impact of mining on local ecosystems In addition, the sector is exploring the use of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to reduce its carbon footprint.

3. Asset Protection and Crime Prevention:

The South African mining sector places a greater emphasis on asset protection and crime prevention. This is due to the high rate of theft and illegal mining activities in the country. Mining companies use technologies like CCTV cameras, access control systems, and biometric identification to prevent theft and unauthorized access

Compared to the European mining sector which has lower rates of theft and illegal mining activities, the security technologies used in the sector are not as focused on asset protection and crime prevention.

4. Surveillance:

The South African mining sector also relies heavily on surveillance technologies to monitor mining operations and prevent crime According to a report by Frost & Sullivan, the South African mining industry spent over $200 million on security technologies in 2016, with a large portion of that budget allocated to surveillance technologies

In contrast, the European mining sector does not rely as heavily on surveillance technologies. While CCTV cameras and other surveillance tools are used to monitor mining operations, they are not as prevalent as in the South African mining sector

In conclusion, the European and South African mining sectors have different security technology priorities and strategies. The European mining sector prioritizes worker safety and environmental sustainability, while the South African mining sector focuses on asset protection, crime prevention, surveillance and worker safety Overall, the use of automated mining technologies in South Africa is still in its early stages, but it is expected to grow in the coming years as mining companies seek to improve safety and productivity. However, the adoption of these technologies may face challenges related to infrastructure, regulatory issues, and labor relations

The continued development and implementation of these technologies will be critical to the future of the mining industry in both Europe and South Africa

Despite these efforts, mining remains a hazardous occupation in South Africa, and the industry continues to be plagued by accidents and fatalities According to Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), there were 51 mining fatalities in South Africa in 2020, compared to 81 in 2019. While this represents a significant improvement, there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety of mining workers in South Africa This challenge highlights the great demand for smart mining to be introduced to the sector For example, a Spanish company that specializes in intuitive mine monitoring and complete logistics solutions, TORSA Global, recently launched its offices in South Africa, on 14 February 2023. Click on this link to read more on the launch.

SCC UPCOMING MEETING AND EVENTSCALENDAR

DATE

MEETING / EVENT

Monday, 27 March 2023 ZAPPTAX with French & Belgian Chambers

Thursday, 30 March 2023

Marketing in the Digital Area & Brand Development with EU Chambers

Thursday, 13 April 2023 The Presidency Investment Conference for South Africa

Tuesday, 18 April 2023 IESE Business School Symposium- Knightsbridge Conference Centre, Johannesburg

Wednesday, 19 April 2023

Thursday, 20 April 2023

Thursday, 20 April 2023

Sunday, 4 June 2023 TBC

Thursday, 25 May 2023

Friday, 09 June 2023

TBC June 2023

Tuesday, 11 July 2023

IESE Business School Symposium- Innovation City, Cape Town

Think Equal Breakfast Seminar with Leslie Udwin

SCC 2nd Board Meeting in preparation for AGM

F1 Spanish Granprix Race in Barcelona at Casa De Espana

Africa Day celebration in Association with Nedbank

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Virtual Networking with the Spanish Chambers in Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Senegal, & Tangiers Members

SCC & EU Chambers' Water and Infrastructure Event with NEDBANK

Friday, 21 July 2023 3rd SCC Board Meeting

Wednesday, 26 July 2023

Thursday, 17 August 2023

Knowledge Cafe: Managing Projects using PPP-Prof PD Rwelamila

South African Women's Day Celebration Symposium Strategies to Overcome the Glass Ceiling

OF COMMERCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

SCC