China (People's Republic of)

History of Relations | Diplomatic Representation | Travel Info | Health Requirements | Climate Info | Currency Info | Trade Info | Visits and Meetings | Agreements | Interest Groups/ Organisations

History of Relations

South Africa and the People's Republic of China (PRC) agreed in August 1991 on the establishment of unofficial representations in Beijing and Pretoria respectively to act as channels of communication between the two governments. Consequently the South African Centre for Chinese Studies was established in Beijing in March 1992. Formal diplomatic relations were established on 1 January 1998.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in China

H E Dr S C Cwele
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

China Representation in South Africa

H E Mr Chen Xiaodong
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the People's Republic of China

Travel Info

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the Embassy of the People's Republic of China.


Health Requirements

Immunisation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C as well as Japanese Encephalitis is strongly recommended before departure from South Africa. Immunisation against poliomyelitis, tetanus and typhoid (Vivotif Berna) is also recommended. Malaria is not really a problem in Beijing, although it does exist in the southern parts of China. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from an infected area.

For further information go to Travelers' Health.


Climate Info

Beijing is hot and humid in summer and very cold and dry in winter. Temperatures from June to August can go up to 38 degrees C with a humidity level of 70 - 75% or more.

For up-to-date weather information click here.


Currency Info

The monetary unit is the Yuan (referred to in the daily language as kuai), divided into ten mao (or "jiao" on the bank notes), each of which comprises ten fen. The currency is officially referred to as the Renminbi, abbreviated to RMB. The symbol for Yuan is "Y". The currency is not freely convertible.

For current exchange rates click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

No Information

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa's main exports to China include iron ore, steel, manganese, chrome ore, tobacco, wool, granite, gold, copper, aluminium and motor vehicle spares. China's main exports to South Africa include textiles, kidney beans, groundnuts, cotton seed cake, light electronics, capital equipment, paraffin wax and television sets.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and China, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

No Information

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