Date/Time
Date(s) - October 25 2023 - October 27 2023
12:00am
Location
Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
DBT are delighted to announce a trade mission to SARA 2023, the Southern African Railways conference and exhibition.
This mission is ideal for UK rail businesses in the areas of advanced control; energy management; high value rolling stock systems; whole life asset optimisation and through life management; and customer experience.
Why Southern Africa?
Through an initial profiling and analysis, the department has identified an £11bn possible project pipeline (Source: Africa House).
This project pipeline represents an excellent opportunity for the UK rail industry to understand the export opportunities across Southern Africa and to meet with DBT staff from across the region who can support their export goals.
About SARA:
The Southern African Railway Association (SARA) represents railways spanning some 16 countries from across southern Africa including Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia to name just four.
Taking place annually, the SARA conference and exhibition, is hosted by railway operators and attended by ministries, regulators, and financiers from the region. The conference and exhibition attract over 800+ delegates from across southern Africa and globally, and has over 40 speakers, with 30 topics and 15 sessions.
Rail Forum are currently in discussion with SARA to establish a framework for collaboration. We are planning on attending the event and it would be fantastic to have some of our members join us on this initial visit.
Conference Program:
The theme for the Southern African Railways Conference in 2023 will be: ‘Enhancing Railway Capacity and Quality Of Services Through New Operating Models and Partnerships For Seamless Regional Integration and Trade.’
To view details of some session highlights, please see here.
Pre market visit activities to include:
- Educational webinar on exporting to Southern Africa, including: Brief project analysis and rail operators’ profiles, an overview on previous and potential opportunities in the rail industry, information on market requirements when exporting to region and how to prepare for your visit.
In market activities* to include:
- Attend SARA and meet with buyers and gain valuable market insights
- Network with DBT UK and overseas colleagues and meet with peers from across the UK
- Participate in site visits to future line expansions, and workshops around Gauteng
*Activities subject to change.
Who should attend?
The conference and exhibition are suitable for both seasoned exporters as well as new exporters i.e. those looking to meet with existing buyers to increase trade and those looking to gain valuable experience.
Costs:
Cost: Free to join. Delegates are responsible for paying for their own travel expenses including flights, accommodation and in market costs.
To register click here.
