The first day of a bio trade marketplace workshop got underway in Cape Town, on Tuesday.
The focus is on the commerce of biodiversity products and services.
Locally this may include species like baobab, marula, buchu, honeybush and aloe and more.
It is hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) through the Bioproducts Advancement Network South Africa (BioPANZA), in collaboration with Swiss PartnershIP South Africa and the ABioSA programme.
Discussions centred around European Union (EU) buyer expectations, market development, quality standards, testing, strategic partnerships and strengthening business pitching and marketing capabilities.
Companies also had the opportunity to engage through dedicated service desks, receiving one-on-one assistance and guidance from government representatives and various industry associations.
Attendees come from across the biotrade sector to explore practical Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) pathways, regulatory compliance and opportunities to strengthen southern African products in international markets.
Picture: Supplied