JOHANNESBURG, June 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese exhibitors actively pursued business opportunities with global partners at the Big 5 Construct South Africa, a major construction event held in Johannesburg from Wednesday to Friday.
Kirsha Krishna, brand manager of FAW Trucks Southern Africa, noted visitors' significant interest in FAW's full range of commercial vehicles, from light to heavy-duty trucks, at the company's exhibition stand.
"We hope the sales team will be able to capitalize on key connections that they have been able to make in terms of procurement, decision-makers they met and connected with," said Krishna.
Francois Malan, head of sales at Enviro Automotive, said their different types of electric vehicles were a crowd puller during the show. They displayed an electric pick-up vehicle, trucks, and other types.
"We are bringing the full electric vehicle to the South African market, showing people that electric vehicles have proven themselves affordable in other markets. The future is now, people talk about electric vehicles, and we are showing them now," said Malan.
Malan noted that several chief executive officers of construction companies visited their stand to inquire about electric vehicles. He highlighted their advantages, explaining that the vehicles require no maintenance aside from an eight-hour charging period.
"Most people were fascinated by the electric vehicles, and they exchanged contacts to continue their engagement after the exhibition," said Malan.
Jason Zhang, sales manager from Shandong Huajie New Materials, said many people want their company to supply pre-painted aluminum coils, stainless steel coils, and galvanized coils. He said they exchanged contracts and would continue with the engagement after the exhibition.
Zhang noted that he had been informed of South Africa's open market and favorable tax policies, which motivated his company's debut exhibition in the country.
Tracey-Lee Behr, project manager at DMG Events and also event director, noted that over 50 Chinese companies have participated in this year's Big 5 Construct South Africa.
"We are so proud that there are so many international participants. China has some of the biggest pavilions, and it's great to have them participating, as they showcase different products that are not found in the local market," Behr said. ■