French companies have invested R166 billion in South Africa since 2019, according to Business France, in a September announcement ahead of the fifth France–South Africa Business Forum, held in Johannesburg 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 brought together business leaders, investors, government representatives and industry specialists. The announced programme included a plenary session, technical workshops, business-to-business meetings and networking.
According to the organisers’ announcement, discussions were planned to cover energy security and the green transition, infrastructure and sustainable cities, water and environmental solutions, manufacturing, logistics, digital transformation and skills development.
The event formed 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 was scheduled for 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 for similar meetings can make 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.
September 2026 forum: archive information
The forum took place on 29 September 2026. FSACCI published an event report on 6 October, describing discussions on investment, industry, skills and logistics, alongside B2B meetings.
Updated 1 November 2026: Registration information for the September event has been removed. The R166 billion investment figure remains attributed to Business France’s September announcement.
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