Indian companies can play major role in South Africa's infrastructure development: S Koventhan
India's Consul General in Johannesburg, S Koventhan, has said that several Indian companies have established a strong track record in rail networks, port modernisation, and power systems, and the country could become a partner in the development of infrastructure projects in South Africa. Companies that participated in a two-day Africa Rail Expo expressed optimism about getting business as South Africa embarks on a major revamp of its rail infrastructure.
The two-day event, which concluded on July 8, 2026, featured six small businesses from the sector, led by Pallavi Saha, Joint Director at the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), along with several multinational companies operating from India. The participants engaged with local industry representatives and agreed to have follow-up meetings.
Koventhan noted that ‘The participation of Indian companies at Africa Rail 2026 is a testimony to the robust commercial ties that exist between the two countries, and such participation will certainly pave the way for further collaborations in areas of transport, logistics and infrastructure. As South Africa is keen to modernise its rail and logistics ecosystem, Indian companies can offer affordable, reliable and sustainable solutions backed by rich experience in handling large-scale infrastructure projects.’
Besides, Pallavi Saha said that South Africa is one of India's top markets for engineering exports, and this prompted the EEPC to showcase its expertise at Africa Rail. Saha said the railway sector in India is progressing rapidly towards 100 per cent electrification, while embracing new concepts such as bullet trains and Vande Bharat. Saha added that the stringent certification requirement in India will also benefit exports into Africa.
