Authorities in Huizhou, Guangdong province, will hold a commodity exhibition fair in Johannesburg, South Africa on Nov 13-15, to promote trade and economic cooperation with African countries.

“Organizing the exhibition event is part of efforts to develop business potentials in emerging markets in Africa as we are facilitating ties with countries situated along the ancient Maritime Silk Road,” said Wang Guangjun, director of the local foreign trade and economic cooperation authority.

Wang was speaking on Sunday to a group of reporters from countries along the Maritime Silk Road, who are visiting Guangdong, a southern province that is regarded as the birthplace of the ancient trade road.

According to Wang, more than 40 companies based in Huizhou, a rising manufacturing and trade city in the Pearl River Delta, will participate in the event.

Products being promoted include electronics, solar energy, LED, garments and art and crafts, according to Wang.

Huang Yanxing, publicity chief of Huizhou, said the city would strengthen trade ties with African countries, which will help provide agricultural and mineral products to local manufacturers.