On October 14, 2026, Ren Faqiang, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Cape Town, met with Mr Jacques du Plessis, the Chairman of the Board of South African Abalone Export Council (SAAEC) at the Consulate General, having a friendly exchange on deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation in the abalone industry. Deputy Consul General Wang Xiao attended the meeting.

Consul General Ren praised the unique quality of South African abalones, which are popular among Chinese consumers, and expressed that the Consulate General is willing to continue to provide convenience and support for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

Mr Plessis introduced South Africa abalone production and exports to China, stated that China is the largest market for South African abalones and appreciated China's implementation of a "zero-tariff" policy on products from countries with diplomatic relations with Africa. He also thanked Consul General Ren and Consulate general for their support on the development of the South African abalones industry, and looked forward to deepening the practical cooperation with China.