The key challenge in Russian-South African relations is the lack of a trade agreement

On April 15, 2025, a joint meeting of the Russia-South Africa Business Council was held within the framework of the 18th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of South Africa. The event became especially relevant in the context of South Africa's presidency of the Business 20 (В20) in 2025, where the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP) serves as the coordinator for the participation of Russian businesses.

The event was attended by RSPP Vice President Sergey Krasilnikov, who noted the potential that remains in trade relations between Russia and South Africa. In his view, a key issue hindering the development of these relations is the lack of a trade agreement that would equalize the conditions of competition in the markets. South Africa already has free trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, the UK, and other countries, which puts Russian companies in a less favorable position and incurs additional costs.

Nevertheless, Sergey Krasilnikov emphasized that the structure of mutual trade between the two countries is "relatively young", which at this stage makes it easy to conclude trade agreements. Both countries have accumulated significant experience that will be beneficial for further collaboration. In particular, South Africa is a member of one of the oldest customs unions — the Southern African Customs Union (SACU). In this regard, the RSPP Vice President urged the parties not to delay the conclusion of such an agreement to avoid potential problems in the future.

Additionally, the RSPP presented many specific business proposals, including cooperation in the field of digital technologies, energy, machine engineering, agriculture, etc. RSPP also called on the business communities of both Russia and South Africa to work together with the support of the governments of both countries. In turn, the RSPP is able to assist the process on the platform of the EAEU Business Council, where it represents the interests of Russian businesses and coordinates the work of the Council.