The metro is embarking on an aggressive business promotion drive this year, with the Trade and Investment Conference 2005 seen as but one element in this strategy.

The conference was launched during March by executive Mayor Nceba Faku to a select group of business leaders and council members.

An impressive line-up of speakers and conference partners have been assembled to try and lure more domestic and international investment into the Nelson Mandela Metropole by showcasing the region’s opportunities and level of development.

“I think we can pride ourselves that in a short space of time we have established the kind of infrastructure and services that could take on the world to host this conference in the metro,” said Faku.

He highlighted the need for a strong partnership between council and the business community to make this possible.

The level of co-operation has been highlighted by the conference partners including DTI, Percci, ECDC, Nafcoc, the National Ports Authority, SA Port Operations, Coega and the Automotive Industry Development Centre.

Faku said that while international investors were key to this conference, the confidence of domestic and local investment in the metro gave credence to the region as a suitable investment destination.

“The economy of the metro so far has given very clear indications of that confidence, which is clearly displayed by existing business investors in the metro.”

This focus on local investment and development was a key theme throughout the launch.

There was also encouraging news for local enterprises, with the metro’s economic development manager Vuyo Zitumane outlining future plans to create a more business and investment friendly environment.

At the investment level, the metro is implementing an investment and incentive policy that would include the establishment of an investment council.

The metro also intends providing much greater business support services to local business, large and small.

This strategy will see the establishment of a business support centre that would include an investor service centre, business support and BEE centre. Small enterprises will also be accommodated at the conference and exhibition with 110 SMMEs invited to participate free of charge.

Conference organisers aim to attract 50 exporters, 50 domestic and international buyers and 50 domestic and international investors, among others. Speakers at the conference will include Premier Nosimo Balindlela, Deputy Trade and Industry Minister Lindiwe Hendricks, Economic Affairs, Environment and Tourism MEC Andre de Wet and Coega CEO Pepi Silinga.

Exhibition stands are available at R3 000 and conference delegate fees are R2000. The Trade and Investment Conference will be held from May 31 till June 2 at the Feather Market Centre and Kwantu Towers in Govan Mbeki Avenue.