From 21 to 23 June 2026, Consul General Ren Faqiang visited the Garden Route District of the Western Cape. During the visit, he held separate meetings with Executive Mayor Marais Kruger of the Garden Route District Municipality, Major General Phumzile Cetyana, District Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), as well as the Executive Mayors of George, Knysna and Mossel Bay Municipalities. Consul General Ren also visited local technology enterprises and tourism projects, met with members of the local Chinese community, and toured Chinese-owned businesses to learn about their operations while reminding them to remain vigilant on security issues.

Consul General Ren briefed local officials on China's latest economic and social development and introduced China's zero-tariff policy for Africa. He exchanged views with them on promoting friendly exchanges and practical cooperation between local governments in the consular district and their counterparts in China. He also expressed the hope that the municipal governments would continue to support the development of Chinese enterprises and Chinese businesses.

During the visit, Consul General Ren visited more than 20 Chinese-owned businesses, where he learned about the business operations and daily lives of members of the local Chinese community. He also briefed them on the local security situation and reminded them to operate in compliance with local laws and regulations. Consul General Ren stressed that the Consulate General will continue to uphold the principle of "people-centered diplomacy" and make every effort to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese nationals in the consular district.