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The Eastern Cape has taken another major step in strengthening international relations as Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane welcomed a delegation from China’s Jilin Province on 03 November 2025. The meeting focused on expanding trade, technology, and industrial collaboration between the two regions.
What Happened
A high-level delegation led by His Excellency Mr. Cao Yuguang, Vice Chairman of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, met with the Premier in Bhisho. The 26-member business team included leaders from manufacturing, ICT, rail engineering, agriculture, and trade.
Premier Mabuyane was joined by MECs Xolile Nqatha (Transport), Nonkqubela Peters (Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism), Sipokazi Mani-Lusithi (Human Settlements), Nonceba Khontsiwe (Agriculture), and Buffalo City Executive Mayor Princess Faku.
This visit followed a Letter of Intent signed in November 2024 to establish sister-province relations between the Eastern Cape and Jilin.
Official Response
Premier Mabuyane described the visit as a milestone in building a long-term partnership that goes beyond diplomatic ties. He said the collaboration will promote the exchange of skills, technology, and economic opportunities.
“We want our partnership to result in factories built, jobs created, and skills transferred for shared prosperity and sustainable development,” said Mabuyane.
He cited FAW Trucks SA’s R200 million expansion at Coega and cooperation with Changchun Railway Vehicle Company as proof of progress.
A major outcome was the agreement for MEC Nqatha to lead a technical team to China to explore rail infrastructure improvements aimed at faster, more efficient travel and better rural connectivity.
Community Impact
This partnership shows the province’s commitment to industrial growth, trade expansion, and job creation. Eastern Cape businesses will participate in the upcoming Jilin Agricultural Expo to market local products and attract investors.
The collaboration is also expected to advance agro-processing, automotive production, and emerging technologies key areas for long-term economic transformation.
