India's historical connection with the South African struggle for freedom and justice, largely initiated by Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha movement over a century ago, has fostered a profound and enduring relationship. This article delves into the key facets of this relationship, including capacity-building initiatives, economic ties, and areas of collaboration such as trade, investments, and strategic partnerships.

Key Points:

1. India-South Africa Trade: In the fiscal year 2022-23, the bilateral trade between India and South Africa reached approximately US$ 18.87 billion, reflecting the economic ties between the two nations. Additionally, South Africa holds the 35th position in FDI equity inflows into India, with cumulative FDI amounting to US$ 595.73 million from April 2000 to March 2023.
2. Major Exported Items from India to South Africa: India's exports to South Africa in 2022-23 totaled US$ 8.47 billion, with significant contributions from items such as petroleum products, motor vehicles, drug formulations, and more. In the period from April to May 2023-24, India's exports to South Africa amounted to US$ 1.43 billion, highlighting the sustained trade relationship.
3. Major Imported Items by India from South Africa: Conversely, India imported a variety of goods from South Africa, with imports totaling US$ 10.39 billion in 2022-23. These imports encompassed items like coke, coal, gold, and precious stones. During the initial months of 2023-24, India's imports from South Africa amounted to US$ 1.71 billion.
4. Economic Relations and Investments: Over the past 30 years, India and South Africa have cultivated a meaningful bilateral relationship, characterized by support and cooperation. India's cumulative investments in Africa stand at an impressive US$ 70 billion, spanning sectors like oil and gas, mining, banking, pharmaceuticals, textiles, automotive, and agriculture. Furthermore, South Africa has contributed to India's FDI equity inflows with a cumulative investment of US$ 595.73 million.
5. Key Engagements and Collaborations: Key engagements between India and South Africa have addressed various areas, including defense, education, agriculture, trade, and investment. Leaders from both nations have recognized the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors. Notably, they have welcomed WTO agreements that support vaccine production in developing countries.
6. Recent Events: Several significant events have shaped India-South Africa relations, such as the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Export-Import (EXIM) Bank Conclave and the India-Africa Defence Dialogue (IADD), which explored defense and security cooperation.