by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Africa is set to expand its footprint in the international rail technology market as the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) leads an Outward Selling Mission to Madrid, Spain, from 25–29 November 2025.
The initiative will anchor South African companies at Rail Live 2025, one of the world’s leading exhibitions dedicated to railway innovation, digitalisation, and sustainable transport solutions.
Rail Live, Spain’s flagship rail industry event, draws global operators, manufacturers, policymakers, and technology specialists to showcase advances shaping the future of mobility.
The platform’s combination of a high-level conference and extensive technology exhibition offers participants exposure to cutting-edge developments, international best practices, and potential partnerships across the rail value chain.
The South African delegation will include nine companies spanning key segments of the sector—rolling stock components, signalling and automation systems, engineering and maintenance services, digital mobility platforms, and rail logistics.
Together, they represent a mix of established exporters and emerging innovators seeking to position themselves within Spain’s sophisticated rail ecosystem and broader global markets.
According to the dtic’s Chief Director of Export Promotion, Zanele Sanni, the mission comes at a crucial moment for South Africa’s rail modernisation drive.
“Rail Live is globally recognised for showcasing next-generation rail technology and sustainable mobility solutions. This mission offers South African companies an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with global industry leaders and explore partnerships that can support our sector’s renewal,” she said.
Sanni noted that the initiative aligns with the dtic’s strategic priorities—Digitalisation, Decarbonisation, and Diversification.
“Showcasing South African capabilities at Rail Live enhances our global positioning and deepens technical cooperation with international partners. It also reinforces our commitment to building a more sustainable and innovative rail sector,” she added.
She emphasised that the mission is expected to expand market access for local firms, strengthen their competitiveness, and create a strong evidence base for future participation in international high-impact events.
“Spain demonstrates how innovation and efficiency can transform transport infrastructure. Our objective is to learn from these models and adapt them to strengthen regional connectivity, industrialisation, and inclusive economic growth,” Sanni said.
– CAJ News