Speaking at a gala dinner in Bloemfontein to celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations between the provincial government and China, he said the province would continue to source and solicit investments from other countries. Dukwana encouraged businesses to strengthen existing ties and establish new relations with counterpart businesses in China.

Consul General of the People’s Republic of China Zhongdong Tang said the total trade value in the Free State and the country has increased substantially over the years.

Consul General of the People’s Republic of China Zhongdong Tan. Picture: Facebook

Last month, a Chinese company that processes scrap metals into steel was officially launched in Thaba Nchu. Some 150 employees are employed by the company promises of 5 000 more shortly. 

At the launch, Dukwana pledged to work tirelessly to ensure the province's economy reaches its full potential, while government will support investors. He also called on employers to stop the exploitation of workers.

“Our people cannot just be mere workers; they cannot be just tools to be used; they must be respected. They must be allowed to be a better version of themselves to build a better society. The workers that you have become the soul of the business that you run,” he said.

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