Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) Chair, Reta Jo Lewis, spearheaded efforts to fortify trade relations between the United States and South Africa during the Atlanta Phambili summit convened by Prosper Africa.
The mission, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties between the two nations, brought together key figures including U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben E. Brigety II and U.S. Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh Ebong.
During the event, Chair Lewis stated EXIM’s commitment to leveraging financing tools to foster trade and investment between the United States and South Africa. At Spelman College, she engaged in an investor roundtable, stressing EXIM’s capacity to enhance trade links. Noteworthy attendees included Dr. Anthony Costa from the Private Office of the President of South Africa and major representatives from both U.S. and South African entities.
Chair Lewis also met with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens to explore potential investment avenues between Atlanta and South Africa. At Coca-Cola headquarters, she participated in discussions on business opportunities in South Africa, shedding light on EXIM’s financing tools to mitigate investment risks.
The day concluded with Chair Lewis addressing a trade innovation forum at the Georgia Institute of Technology, emphasizing the strategic importance of Georgia-South Africa trade relations and EXIM’s dedication to supporting U.S. exporters in South Africa.
Furthermore, Prosper Africa announced the launch of its Africa Trade Desk during the forum, aiming to foster U.S.-Africa trade by connecting suppliers and buyers and providing access to U.S. retail outlets.
The event wrapped up with a business-to-business matchmaking session, organized by Atlanta-based chambers of commerce, aimed at boosting trade and investment between Atlanta and Africa.
