Western Cape backs businesses with free course on export compliance

Source: Western Cape Department of Agriculture | From left to right: Jo-Ann Johnston, Lizo Dlaba, Minister Ivan Meyer and Dingaan Goodwell.

Developed by the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) in partnership with the International Trade Institute of Southern Africa (ITISA), the nine-module programme forms part of the provincial Growth for Jobs Strategy.

The coursework covers the mechanics of getting goods across borders, including dedicated modules on international transport services, cargo insurance, Incoterms 2020, export administration, and customs procedures.

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said: "Export growth is one of the most effective ways to create jobs and stimulate economic development.

"Through this free online export course, we are equipping entrepreneurs and businesses with the practical skills they need to access new markets, grow their customer base, and contribute to the Western Cape's export-led growth agenda."

Tangible impact on exporters

The programme is already yielding results for regional businesses tackling export logistics.

Alicia Somdaka, founder and CEO of agro-processing firm Imbali Nature's Crown, said the training helped her navigate compliance, export documentation, and tariff classification. The practical roadmap enabled her to redesign product labels for export requirements and prepare her business for shipments to Europe and the Middle East.

Similarly, Sandiswa Masimini, who completed the course, noted that the curriculum deepened her grasp of export operations—spanning documentation, compliance, logistics, and customs procedures—thereby increasing her operational efficiency and confidence in managing cross-border trade.

Who the course is for

The digital curriculum is designed for:

• Entrepreneurs and SMMEs seeking to enter international markets.
• Business development professionals and trade facilitators.
• Export managers wishing to strengthen their operational capabilities.

Entrepreneurs, business owners, and export managers can access the free Online Export Course here.

For more information, contact DEDAT at az.vog.epacnretsew@aletolocG.aynahK.