Johannesburg, 21 September 2026 – With one week to go before the 5th France–South Africa Business Forum, French investment in South Africa continues to demonstrate strong confidence in the country’s long-term economic prospects. French companies have invested R166 billion in South Africa since 2019, underscoring the depth of bilateral economic ties and reinforcing South Africa’s position as France’s leading investment destination on the African continent.
Today, more than 400 French companies operate across South Africa, employing tens of thousands of people and contributing to economic development in sectors ranging from energy and infrastructure to manufacturing, transport, retail and financial services. Recent investment announcements and expansion projects by major French groups in renewable energy, industrial production and logistics continue to demonstrate sustained confidence in the South African market and its role as a gateway to the wider region.
This investment relationship will be a key focus of the 5th France–South Africa Business Forum, taking place in Johannesburg on 29 September 2026, followed by the Team France Gala Dinner 2026 on 30 September. Together, the Forum and Gala Dinner form a Team France initiative organised jointly by Business France, the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FSACCI), the French Foreign Trade Advisors (CCEF) and the French Embassy.
The Forum comes at a particularly significant moment for bilateral relations. During President Cyril Ramaphosa’s official visit to France in July 2026, discussions focused on accelerating industrial cooperation, supporting South Africa’s energy transition, strengthening skills development and fostering greater investment flows between the two countries. The visit confirmed the strategic importance of the France–South Africa economic partnership and reinforced momentum ahead of the Forum.
Rather than focusing solely on investment opportunities, the Forum will address a series of strategic themes that are shaping the future of the South African economy, including:
- Energy security and the green transition;
- Infrastructure development and sustainable cities;
- Water and environmental solutions;
- Manufacturing competitiveness and industrialisation;
- Logistics and transport connectivity;
- Digital transformation and innovation;
- Skills development and workforce readiness.
South Africa also plays a wider regional role in French business strategies. As one of Africa’s largest industrial economies and a key gateway to Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean region, the country provides a platform for companies seeking to develop regional operations, strengthen value chains and expand into neighbouring markets.
The Forum will bring together business leaders, investors, government representatives and industry experts to discuss these priorities and foster new business connections. This will take place through a plenary session, technical workshops, B2B meetings, and a networking cocktail. Following the Forum, the Gala Dinner will offer an additional platform for senior business and institutional leaders to continue discussions and deepen commercial engagement.
As French investment in South Africa continues to grow, the 2026 Forum aims to mark the next chapter of a mature economic relationship increasingly defined by industrial cooperation, innovation, sustainable development and long-term value creation for both countries.
