South Africa Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Mindray Biomedical Electronics
Vice President Paul Mashatile has urged Chinese medical device and healthcare technology leader Mindray Biomedical Electronics to explore possibilities for expansion in South Africa, focusing on manufacturing, assembly, and localization initiatives.
During a recent visit to China, Mashatile highlighted the country’s interest in enhancing local operations. He emphasized the potential for establishing regional service and training centers as well as manufacturing and assembly sites dedicated to medical technology in South Africa.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to bolster cooperation between South Africa and China in critical sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, digital technology, skills development, and innovation. Mashatile articulated that the goal is not only to attract investment but also to build enduring partnerships that advance industrialization, technology transfer, localization, skills development, and sustainable job creation.
The Vice President stressed that this visit underscores South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China, particularly in enhancing trade, investment, and industrial collaboration. Currently, China stands as South Africa’s largest trading partner, significantly contributing to investments and technological advancements.
As South Africa positions itself as a gateway to the African continent, Mashatile pointed out that there is substantial potential for Mindray to utilize the country as a strategic hub for addressing healthcare needs across Africa. He noted that through the African Continental Free Trade Area, companies that invest in South Africa will gain access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets, offering significant opportunities for regional expansion and long-term growth.
Mashatile encouraged Mindray to participate in the South African Investment Conference and explore the diverse opportunities available through the African Continental Free Trade Area. He also underscored the support available from InvestSA, emphasizing its one-stop-shop model designed to assist foreign investors in navigating administrative processes necessary for establishing a business in South Africa.
This one-stop-shop initiative allows investors a central point of contact with the government, facilitating coordination among various agencies involved in regulatory compliance, registrations, permits, and licenses. Mashatile expressed anticipation for deepening the partnership with Mindray, aiming to enhance healthcare outcomes, drive innovation, and create enduring value for both nations.
He further elaborated on Mindray’s commitment to supporting digital health transformation and skills development in healthcare, noting that these objectives align closely with South Africa’s national priorities. Specifically, Mashatile expressed interest in exploring opportunities to establish centers of excellence, training facilities, and collaborative partnerships with South African universities, hospitals, and research institutions to bolster medical capacity and foster a culture of knowledge exchange.
