On 27th August 2025, the India Commonwealth Trade Council (ICTC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the India South Africa Chamber of Commerce (ISACC), marking a collaborative step in deepening India’s commercial engagement with the South African region.
The MoU was formalized between Dr. Arnob Bhattacharjee, Honorary Trade Commissioner at ICTC, and Mr. Pradeep Ramlal, Secretary of ISACC, in the esteemed presence of H.E. Professor Anil Sooklal, High Commissioner of South Africa to India.
This partnership sets the stage for a broad-based cooperation—focused on facilitating cross-border business engagement, enhancing knowledge exchange, supporting joint research initiatives, and strengthening regulatory cooperation. Along with laying the foundation for deeper cultural and tourism-related ties, as well as coordinated participation in global trade forums and investment platforms.
South Africa’s abundance of natural resources, available workforce, and rising demand for advanced technologies complements India’s capabilities in renewable energy, agro-processing, infrastructure development, tourism, and cutting-edge tech. Making South Africa a suitable destination for Indian investors aiming to pursue long-term ventures within the Southern African region.
Dr. Asif Iqbal, President of the Council who had travelled to attend the CHOGM 2024 in Samoa was excited at this signing of the MOU. He said “This partnership between India and South Africa is a great step as it enhances both the G20 and the BRICS partnership of India and South Africa, we are participating in the BRICS summit in October and will be making new partners to promote Trade and Commerce between the two nations. Our Kolkata office will play major role in aligning Pacific and African nations” .
The MoU reflects ICTC’s commitment to enabling Indian businesses to engage with high-potential, emerging markets—not just within the Commonwealth, but across globally aligned economies.
By working together, ICTC and ISACC aim to create a beneficial business landscape that supports stakeholders from both countries and lays the foundation for sustainable, long-term commercial progress.
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Other links on media about the MOU.
New MOU aims to strengthen business ties between India and South Africa
MOU signing ceremony at the South African High Commission with the presnce of High Commissioner of South Africa HE. Dr. Anil Sooklal and the team of India Commonwealth Trade Council and the India South Africa Chamber of Commerce.
