French companies have invested R166 billion in South Africa since 2019, according to Business France, as Johannesburg prepares to host the fifth France–South Africa Business Forum on 29 September 2026.
More than 400 French companies operate in the country, spanning energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, transport, logistics, financial services and retail. The figures highlight an established business relationship that extends across several of South Africa’s major industries.
Business France published the investment figure in September. Its announcement does not provide a detailed calculation or project breakdown, so the R166 billion total should be understood as the agency’s reported figure.
Investment and industrial cooperation on the agenda
The forum will bring together business leaders, investors, government representatives and industry specialists. Its programme includes a plenary session, technical workshops, business-to-business meetings and networking.
According to the organisers’ announcement, discussions will cover energy security and the green transition, infrastructure and sustainable cities, water and environmental solutions, manufacturing, logistics, digital transformation and skills development.
The event forms part of a Team France initiative organised by Business France, the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the French Foreign Trade Advisors and the French Embassy. The Team France Gala Dinner follows on 30 September.
What the forum offers South African businesses
For local companies, the practical value lies in identifying potential customers, suppliers and technology partners. The combination of sector workshops and B2B meetings provides a setting for discussing specific commercial needs, rather than relying solely on general networking.
Businesses preparing to attend can make those discussions more productive by identifying the partnerships they need and bringing a concise company profile. Useful details include existing capabilities, delivery capacity, relevant certifications and the scope of any proposed project.
Potential partners should also distinguish between exploratory discussions and firm commercial commitments. A meeting or expression of interest does not itself establish that funding, procurement or a joint venture has been agreed.
How to participate
The official registration platform lists the forum at Sandton Hotel, 5 Benmore Road, Benmore Gardens, Johannesburg, on 29 September.
Participation is free for South African companies, subject to approval by the organising team. French companies and French subsidiaries are subject to a participation fee and a separate two-step registration process, as explained on the platform.
Prospective attendees should check the registration page for current availability, deadlines and participation requirements before making travel arrangements.
Beyond the event
The forum’s longer-term significance will depend on the commercial activity that follows: new contracts, implemented projects, supplier relationships and skills partnerships. For readers tracking French investment in South Africa, those outcomes will provide a more useful measure of progress than attendance figures alone.
