Export compliance is key to Gauteng’s G20 trade ambitions, says GGDA

As world leaders gather for the G20 Summit, the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA) is calling on local entrepreneurs to strengthen their export readiness by meeting international compliance standards – from customs certification to country-of-origin barcoding and accurate product labelling.

Through the Qondisa Ishishini Lako (“fix your business”) campaign, launched by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED), the GGDA continues to provide awareness and assist in helping entrepreneurs to close the compliance gaps that often prevent South African products from entering major global markets, including those of the G20 nations.

Sthembiso Dlamini, Acting Group CEO of the GGDA, notes that the G20 nations collectively represent over 80% of global trade, and that positioning Gauteng’s entrepreneurs within these markets depends on the ability to meet stringent regulatory benchmarks.

To assist traders, the GGDA highlights five key areas of export compliance that may determine whether small businesses succeed in trading globally:

1. Business registration and tax compliance

Registering with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and SARS is essential for global trade. Without formal registration, businesses cannot access export permits, funding, or international procurement opportunities.

2. Customs and export certification

Export success starts with proper documentation, including customs clearance, export permits, and Certificates of Origin confirming products as Made in South Africa. These documents enable businesses to access preferential tariffs and trade benefits under regional and international agreements.

3. Barcoding and country-of-origin codes

Barcodes link products to verified information like price, origin, and stock across global supply chains. With help from GS1 South Africa, producers can get valid barcodes and ZA-origin codes to meet international traceability standards. Without them, global retailers can’t stock their products.

4. Product labelling and ingredient specification

To ensure consumer safety and market access, exported products must show clear nutritional, safety, and ingredient information that meets international packaging standards. Through the Qondisa Ishishini Lako campaign, the GGDA helps small manufacturers comply with South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) labelling and disclosure requirements.

5. Standards and certification

Global buyers expect assurance that products comply with recognised standards. The GGDA partners with institutions such as the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) to help small manufacturers obtain certifications that meet export specifications, giving them the credibility required to compete in regulated markets.

Dlamini says, “During this G20 Summit, we have the chance to position Gauteng and South Africa on the global stage, showcase the skill and creativity of local traders, and explore ways to expand their access to international markets with business and political leaders from around the world.

“With this focus, we can create more economic opportunities for South Africans and help families build stable futures. SMMEs are key to this goal, and by removing the barriers that limit their growth, small manufacturers and exporters can reach new markets, expand, and strengthen the national economy.”