Putting a spotlight on SA

OPPORTUNITIES: BRICS SUMMIT, AGOA FORUM SHOWCASE COUNTRY TO THE WORLD

➳ Johannesburg Expo Centre celebrates good business events.

Last year, was a good business year for the Nasrec Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC), hosting a slew of large events. “We’re really proud of the work we’ve done in 2023,” says Adele Hartdegen, CEO of the JEC.

“Among the many events we’ve hosted, we’re particularly proud of the Brics summit in September where we welcomed leaders from around the world. We also hosted the Agoa (African Growth and Opportunity Act) forum in November.”

Big names, big successes

Despite a number of challenges facing the Brics summit this past year, the JEC were prepared to step up when the event’s specifics were finalised.

“All in all – a big success. Well done South Africa for hosting a 15th Brics summit so well,” said Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor.

It was also the first time that the Agoa forum was hosted in SA.

“We have just hosted a successful 20th Agoa forum in Johannesburg where we made a case for the extension, or re-authorisation, of Agoa beyond 2025,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa after the event.

More than 160 business participants and trade unions turned up to engage on trade and investment matters, with about 2 000 participants among them at the forum.

One of the biggest highlights of the forum was the “Made in Africa” exhibition. Around 520 firms, including services, automotive, coffee, and clothing and textiles businesses, displayed their products at the exhibition, showcasing the industrial capability on the continent to procurement officers.

“Agoa shows what business and government have been able to accomplish to collectively grow the economy and create jobs,” said Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel.

Plenty of fun to be had

Aside from the big international events, the JEC also hosted a range of exciting events that brought out the fun side.

At the top of the list was the annual The Rand Show, South Africa’s entertainment and shopping extravaganza. The Rand Show attracted tens of thousands of visitors and hosted more than 400 exhibitors and brands.

“We are thrilled with the success of the Rand Show,” said Hartdegen. “The show continues to provide a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services while offering visitors an exciting experience.”

Ultra South Africa held its Johannesburg leg at the JEC in March, drawing in thousands of music lovers ready for the ultimate electronic music festival.

Fans were treated to headliners like Alesso, Fisher, Adam Beyer, Joris Voorn, and more, in an unforgettable experience.