Paul Mashatile, South Africa's Deputy President: we intend to increase trade with Russia

South Africa is looking to significantly deepen trade and technological cooperation with Russia across a number of strategic sectors, as stated by Paul Mashatile, Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, in an exclusive interview with TV BRICS at St. Petersburg International Economic Forum ( SPIEF) 2025.

Mashatile pointed out that the current level of trade between countries – around US$1 billion – remains insufficient, expressing hope that it could be tripled.

To that end, he said that South Africa brought about 20 domestic companies to SPIEF 2025 to engage in direct talks with Russian businesses. “To start doing deals, to make sure that they can do projects together between our two countries,” he added.

Among the most important topics currently under discussion at the forum, Paul Mashatile highlighted energy, critical minerals, agriculture, and digital technologies. He emphasised that these areas are vital for South Africa’s development and align closely with the priorities of the BRICS agenda.

"For us, the main priority is energy. Russia is advanced in various forms of energy – wind, solar, gas, and also nuclear. South Africa has now included nuclear in our energy mix as well, and we believe that cooperation with Russia will be beneficial in this regard"

Paul Mashatile South Africa's Deputy President

Another major priority is value-added processing in the mining sector: “South Africa has got a lot of minerals that we believe that using technology or technologies that Russia has can help us to beneficiate our own minerals.”

Mashatile also highlighted a growing exchange in the agricultural sector, particularly citrus fruit and wine exports to Russia, and poultry imports in return.

South African Deputy President thanked the Russian leadership for their support of South Africa, especially with South Africa’s role in G20 Presidency.

Additionally, on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Deputy President Paul Mashatile met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting underlined the strong and growing partnership between Russia and South Africa, built on equality, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation, reports the official website of the Russian President.

Vladimir Putin emphasised educational and cultural ties, noting that over 570 South African students currently study in Russia. He also mentioned plans to enhance cultural cooperation, including South African participation in upcoming Intervision music competition.

In response, Deputy President Mashatile expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and acknowledged the importance of Victory Day commemorations hosted in Russia.

Mashatile highlighted South Africa’s participation in SPIEF 2025 as a clear signal of its intention to expand cooperation with Russia.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across trade, education, culture, and multilateral platforms like BRICS and the G20, with further discussions expected at the forthcoming BRICS summit.