Category: South Africa Government

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa has officially exited the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist after successfully implementing key reforms to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The decision to delist South Africa was taken at the conclusion of meetings of the FATF Plenary that took place over 22-24 October 2025 in Paris, France.

After South Africa was listed on the FATF greylist in February 2023, government worked tirelessly to address all the deficiencies that were identified by the FATF and which were reflected in the 22 Action Items in the Action Plan agreed between South Africa and the FATF.

The FATF is an intergovernmental organisation and finance watchdog that was established to combat money laundering, terrorist and proliferation financing, as well as other threats to the integrity of the international financial system. 

It sets global standards for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, promotes the effective implementation of these standards, and conducts mutual evaluations of member countries to assess their compliance with the FATF Recommendations.

“Over the past 32 months, South Africa has engaged with a team of reviewers assigned by the FATF to assess progress against the Action Plan. This culminated in an on-site visit at the end of July 2025, when the assessors came to the country to confirm the sustainability of the reforms that had been reported to them,” National Treasury said on Friday.

This concluded with a meeting with Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, and Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, who assured the FATF of the South African Government’s political commitment to continue to sustainably improving the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system.

“South Africa’s progress in addressing the AML/CFT deficiencies and exiting the FATF greylist represents a major policy and institutional achievement for the people of South Africa, particularly following the weakening of key law enforcement and other institutions during the state capture era. 

“However, while exiting the greylist is an important milestone and a demonstration of South Africa’s commitment to rebuilding the rule of law, it is only start of a broader process to continue to strengthen key institutions, improve enforcement and governance processes, and ensure that such improvements are sustainable and that our systems become increasingly effective in combating money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation financing. 

“Neither government agencies nor regulated entities in the private sector can afford to become complacent and stop improving. Instead, through public-private collaboration, they must continue to strengthen the AML/CFT system,” National Treasury emphasised.

The FATF requires countries that have exited the greylist to demonstrate continued commitment through measurable outcomes, including successful investigations, prosecutions, and sanctions as they relate to AML/CFT.

These actions will form the basis of the next FATF Mutual Evaluation for South Africa, which is expected to commence in the first half of 2026 and conclude in October 2027.

“To prevent being placed back on the greylist, it is important that systems of monitoring and enforcement work more efficiently and effectively, and that there are no gaps, by the time of the Mutual Evaluation. Preparations, in this regard, have already begun and we remain confident that South Africa will be able to sustain the progress made,” National Treasury said.

The department has congratulated Nigeria, Mozambique and Burkina Faso, which were also delisted from the FATF greylist this week. –SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Government of National Unity (GNU) is committed to fostering economic growth, tackling unemployment and poverty and dealing with corruption in South Africa.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who participated in a fireside discussion at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business and Investment Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The President said South Africa’s democratic election processes in 2024 resulted in the formation of the GNU – adding that the GNU is “working extremely well”, despite coming from differing political homes.

“As the [GNU] we identified three priorities that we wanted to work on. The first one is to engender economic growth and to create jobs. With 32% unemployed people in our country, we are having a serious challenge. So, we felt…to engender economic growth and to create jobs as the first priority. 

“Our second priority was to address poverty. Poverty is still rife in our country, and it really emanates from our…colonial past and our apartheid past which in many ways engineered that there should be continued poverty, and we felt as the [GNU] that we should address this in a pointed way and to reduce the cost of living.

“The third priority we identified was to create and ensure that we have a capable, ethical and developmental state. We are trying to enforce that and enhance that in the various levels of our government,” President Ramaphosa said.

Pressing further, the President explained that government has embarked on a reform agenda in various areas to set the tone for economic growth.

“More broadly…we’ve embarked on a number of initiatives and interventions that are seeking to reposition the economy of our country as we reform our logistics, our ports, our roads [and] our electricity.

“We are also focusing on infrastructure build. We are now…investing well over a trillion Rand…in infrastructure. We are also focusing on improving local government where our people live and where investments live. The reforms that we are instituting are paying great dividends,” he said.

Combatting and rooting our corruption is also receiving intense focus from government.

“Corruption is rife not only in government but also in the private sector and we are dealing with that criminality and enforcing the rule of law.

“So, all the important indicators are being put in place, and they are being well aligned and addressed,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa as a suitable investment destination – underscoring government’s continued efforts to cut red tape and ongoing structural reforms as tangible efforts to fostering a more business-friendly climate.

The President participated in a fireside discussion at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business and Investment Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Saturday.

The business and investment summit was held on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit and the East Asian Summit.

“We’ve found a number of countries and companies being very interested in investing in South Africa because we are, without any doubt, the gateway into Africa.

“We are the most industrialised country on the African continent, the largest economy, and we’ve got one of the best financial systems. So, we’ve got very key elements in place to make South Africa even more successful than what it is,” President Ramaphosa asserted.

Reforms to improve business climate

He highlighted some of the concrete steps South Africa is taking to create a conducive climate for investment.

“We’re getting rid of bureaucracy on an ongoing basis and dealing with our visa process so that those who want to come to South Africa to bring their talent, can come with greater ease. 

“We are also ensuring that our education levels keep rising so that those who want to invest can have skilled workers.

“Our State-Owned Enterprises are…being reformed so we are on a good path going forward and rebuilding South Africa and delivering a South Africa that many countries can deal with,” President Ramaphosa said.

Furthermore, the President pointed to the key growth areas for investment in South Africa and emphasised the country’s strong industrialisation drive.

“What we want to do is industrialise further. To build strong firms or companies in South Africa that can contribute to increasing investments. We want to ensure that we continue being good partners.

“But we also want to ensure that we learn from what other countries have to offer, particularly when it comes to technological development, renewable energy and when it comes to new industries, such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and various modernised ways of doing things.

“We are a very good destination for investments. We have a strong rule of law and any country that invests in our country would be able to do extremely well,” President Ramaphosa emphasised.

Mutual cooperation

Turning to the ASEAN bloc itself, President Ramaphosa highlighted the mutual benefits of the trade and knowledge-sharing relationship that the bloc and South Africa can build upon.

“ASEAN countries have developed in spectacular ways in a number of areas [including] technology, infrastructure and in modernising their economies. We want to learn from that, and we want to share our own practise as a developing country with many countries in this part of the world, as in the developing country mold.

“We believe that we can learn in terms of value addition to goods. You are very strong, as countries in this part of the world, with adding value to the various materials that you have. You are very strong in manufacturing and technological transformation. We want to learn from that, and we want to share.

“We also have some strengths as South Africa with the minerals that we have, with the food production that we have in our country. There’s a lot that we can share together with you,” President Ramaphosa said.

Concluding his remarks, President Ramaphosa reiterated that government is putting in every effort, focused on the goal to “enable South Africa to be an investable market – a market that companies can invest in and where their investments can also be safe”. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In a significant move to transform historical solidarity into a dynamic economic partnership, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim have unveiled plans to deepen cooperation between South Africa and Malaysia across various strategic sectors.

The two leaders outlined their shared commitment to expand collaboration in areas including the halal industry and agriculture, to the critical technological frontiers of semiconductor manufacturing and green energy.

The two leaders released a joint press release on Saturday, during President Ramaphosa’s Working Visit to the country.

Other areas of enhanced cooperation include trade and investment, defence, science, technology and innovation, education, tourism and culture, transport and capacity building. 

“The [leaders] recognised that enhanced collaboration in these sectors would deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries and contribute to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

“Both leaders expressed confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations and noted the considerable untapped economic potentials between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa,” the statement read.

Furthermore, trade and investment linkages are to be strengthened by the “facilitating participation of businesses from both countries in trade fairs, exhibitions, and business forums”.

Malaysia affirmed that exports of Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO)-certified palm oil will be expanded in support of South Africa’s “growing demand for sustainably produced food and ingredients within its food processing and manufacturing sectors”.

“Both leaders highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation including research, training programmes, and green manufacturing in the palm oil industry, recognising Malaysia’s position as a global leader in sustainable palm oil production and the Republic of South Africa’s potential as a strategic partner and emerging market.

“Both sides further agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen collaboration and promote sustainable growth in this sector,” the statement said.

South Africa and Malaysia will also cooperate in the technologically critical area of semiconductor manufacturing as well as other sectors.

“Both sides recognised Malaysia’s role as a global hub and leading exporter in the semiconductor industry and expressed commitment to leverage this expertise to promote knowledge-sharing, joint research, and capacity-building.

“The Republic of South Africa is keen to export to Malaysia iron and related products, aircraft and spacecrafts components, machineries and parts, while also encouraged Malaysia to consider investing in green hydrogen, mineral beneficiation, energy infrastructure, energy battery storage and distribution and automotive,” the statement read.

On the global front, the two statesman spoke out against the genocide in Gaza, Palestine and call for respect of the international order.

They affirmed that lasting peace should be “pursued through diplomacy, dialogue and collective multilateral efforts”.

“Both Leaders strongly condemned the atrocities in Gaza and reiterated their steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign, viable, contiguous, and independent Palestinian state.

“They welcomed initiatives aimed at achieving an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire; removal of blockade on Gaza; the protection of all civilians; and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian assistance to those affected.

“Both Leaders further agreed on the necessity of upholding the international order based on the principles of the UN Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states,” the statement continued.

President Ramaphosa and Prime Minister Ibrahim expressed belief that the Working Visit will pave way to even stronger ties.

“Both Leaders reaffirmed their confidence that the outcomes of this visit would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa, while paving the way towards a brighter, more prosperous, and mutually beneficial future for both nations,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Amid a rousing and colourful welcome in Kuala Lumpur befitting the warm relations between South Africa and Malaysia, the stage was set for a profound reaffirmation of ties between the two countries.

The leaders of the two countries, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, drew on the deep history of a shared resistance to slavery, apartheid and colonialism to pave way for deeper and more collaborative future ties.

President Ramaphosa is on a Working Visit to the country as he wraps up a three nation visit to Southeast Asia.

“I wish to thank you…for the invitation that you extend it to us as South Africans and for the very warm welcome that we witnessed as we were coming in. 

“We have hardly been able to see such a warm welcome which was displayed not only by your ministers and key officials but by young people at school and at universities. So that truly warmed our hearts,” President Ramaphosa remarked during a joint press briefing with the Prime Minister.

The history between the two countries dates back hundreds of years which the President described as a “shared resistance to the atrocities of slavery, and colonialism”.

During the times of slavery in the 1700 and 1800s, thousands of Malaysian people were forcefully taken to South Africa and later became known as the Cape Malay.

Some years later, the Malaysian government would also assist anti-apartheid efforts in South Africa – forging bonds of solidarity between the two nations.

“We will forever remain grateful to the people and the government of Malaysia, for your support in our struggle for freedom, but also in the formative years of our democracy,” President Ramaphosa said.

Relations between the two countries were formalised in November 1998 and the President called for a revitalisation and strengthening of ties.

“We have reconfirmed that trade and investment opportunities needs to be expanded between our countries. Particularly during this period of geological tensions and challenges where trade is being used as a weapon.

“We do believe, as you do too, that we need to expand our market base and having been so closely related to one another and to tapered down over the years, we would like to recalibrate that and make sure that our ties get stronger and stronger. 

“So, South Africa will strive to further strengthen our existing collaboration in the many areas of common interest. The momentum which these consultations have generated should not be lost,” President Ramaphosa noted.

He emphasised that South Africa places “great importance” on its relations with the Southeast Asian nation.

“It is my hope that we will continue to strengthen our friendship and our cooperation in as two nations. With the various exchanges that we should have, it would be most fitting that we rekindle also our people-to-people relations especially in education. 

“As you talk about exchanges between universities, at the research level, at student exchange level, and we should also broaden the exchanges at the culture level and also the sport level,” he said.

Malaysia – at the invitation of South Africa – is expected to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

“We await to welcome you there together with the business delegation that you’re going to bring which will help to solidify our relations at a trade and investment level. Our ministers are going to be fully engaged in crafting memoranda of understanding in a number of areas. 

“In extending the friendship and cooperation between us, I wish to extend to you an invitation, to visit South Africa at a state level visit in 2026…and we will be honoured to welcome you to the most beautiful country in the world, South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Source: Government of South Africa

Saturday, October 25, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

By Themba Thobela

As the world grapples with the urgent challenges of climate change, economic instability, and widening inequality, South Africa’s G20 Presidency stands as a beacon of hope. 

 

South Africa is leading a bold agenda that places Africa and the wider Global South at the heart of global decision-making, guided by the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”

 

In the lead-up to the G20 Summit on 22–23 November 2025 in Johannesburg, we have used every preparatory meeting and platform to ensure that the voices and priorities of emerging and developing economies shape a fairer, more resilient global future.

 

South Africa’s message is clear, wealthy economies must confront the hard truth of global inequality. As a nation that has lived through the pain of division and injustice of apartheid, we cannot remain silent while millions across Africa and the Global South continue to carry the weight of an unfair world order.

 

Today’s global system still favours the wealthy, leaving developing countries trapped in cycles of debt and struggle. With fewer resources to invest in critical areas like poverty reduction, healthcare, and education, they are denied the chance to unlock their full potential. Climate change deepens these injustices, stripping people of dignity and opportunity.

 

Inspired by the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa is called to act and speak for those who cannot, to challenge exclusion, and to build a fair and inclusive future for all. Our G20 Presidency turns this moral imperative into action, advancing bold reforms, dismantling barriers of past injustice, and driving policies that deliver lasting change.

 

We want Africa and the Global South, home to over half the world’s population and immense natural resources, to have a stronger voice. Doing so not only strengthens the fight against global challenges like climate change but also unlocks the promise of fast-growing markets and a youthful population for sustainable progress worldwide.

 

Since December 2024, South Africa has hosted more than 130 meetings from ministerial gatherings in Durban to youth summits in Johannesburg amplifying voices from small businesses, young leaders, and think tanks across the Global South.

 

These efforts have driven real change, pressing for fairer voting rights in institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation. Experts from the Global South have helped shape G20 task forces on jobs, food security, and Artificial Intelligence to make sure policies meet real-world needs of all nations. Through platforms like Business 20 and Youth 20, South Africa has also made sure women, young people, and entrepreneurs have a direct say in global decisions.

 

A central focus of our Presidency is reforming the global financial system. We are working to reshape multilateral development banks so that they better serve sustainable development, making financing more accessible and trade fairer, so that developing nations have the tools they need to grow and thrive.

 

We also know that climate change strikes the Global South hardest. That is why our G20 agenda prioritises mobilising finance for a just energy transition. We are pushing for larger, better-quality climate funding, ensuring the transition is both environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. We are also highlighting the urgent need to strengthen disaster resilience and support vulnerable nations as they recover and rebuild.

 

Through our Presidency, South Africa has brought together diverse voices to advance fairer global system. Our leadership is already rewriting the rules of global cooperation, and we remain confident that as the Global South takes its rightful seat at the table, it will pave the way for a more inclusive, just, and resilient world.

 

*Thobela is Acting Director: International Media Engagement, GCIS

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a “unique bloc” of countries that could serve as a market within which South Africa can expand and diversify its export markets and deepen strategic relations.

This according to Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, who spoke to SAnews ahead of the ASEAN Summit and the East Asian Summit to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this weekend.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to be a Guest of the Chair at the pivotal summit in a bid to strengthen South Africa’s economic and strategic engagements with the dynamic economic bloc.

“The ASEAN, as an economic bloc, has approximately 650 million people; it’s quite significant and key. We’re speaking about investment in emerging economies such as South Africa that finds expression (sic). 

“If we look at what we call the ASEAN tigers — such as Singapore, Malaysia and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam — it’s all within the ASEAN group. It’s important for diversification,” Botes told SAnews.

The ASEAN Member States include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, which together boast a gross domestic product of some USD 3.8 trillion in 2023 and projected economic growth of some 4.2% in the face of global economic uncertainty.

According to the ASEAN website, two-way trade between South Africa and the bloc grew from some USD 10.56 billion in 2023 to some USD 11.21 billion in 2024, with tourism from South Africa to the region increasing steadily from 144 415 people in 2023 to 160 203 in 2024.

In 2023, South Africa was recognised as a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN alongside countries including Brazil, Morocco and Switzerland.

“The fact that South Africa now is a sectoral dialogue partner to the ASEAN group bodes quite well for the expression of our own national interests. 

“It’s a unique economic bloc for economic partnership [and] secondly, it’s an important economic bloc to unlock FDI [foreign direct investment] from South Africa’s FDI agencies into this bloc. What you have is relatively stable governance architecture within most of the group, so it’s quite compatible with our own ambitions,” Botes said.

Building relations

The President’s Working Visit to Malaysia is the final stop in a tour to Southeast Asia, which included State Visits to Indonesia and Vietnam.

“South Africa and Malaysia enjoyed exceptionally warm and dynamic relations in the decade following 1994, marked by close collaboration on multilateral platforms, such as the Non-Aligned Movement, South-South Cooperation and Dialogue Partnerships. 

“The relations with Malaysia and by extension Southeast Asia and ASEAN, are of strategic importance to South Africa’s Foreign Policy,” the Presidency said in a statement earlier this week.

The relations serve as a portal to more dynamic markets.

“They offer a gateway to dynamic regional markets, emerging technologies and help reinforce South Africa’s position as a proactive and globally engaged partner in the Global South,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za