Following engagements at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) Japan in May 2025, the Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) led a delegation from the South African Defence Industry (SADI) to the inaugural Defence Industry Seminar recently held at the South African Residence in Tokyo.
The seminar aimed to identify and explore potential areas of collaboration between South Africa and Japan in the defence and related industries. As a key outcome, participants underscored the importance of establishing a formal Defence Cooperation Agreement between the two countries. This agreement will serve as a foundation for developing a comprehensive framework that outlines terms, roles, responsibilities and areas of cooperation.
In his remarks, Mr Zane Cleophas, Chairperson of the Investment and Deal-Making Committee at Armscor, emphasised the importance of fostering stronger defence and industry ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.
“This seminar comes at a time when global conflicts and geopolitical tensions are on the rise, threatening the stability of nations and regions. Such a context calls for robust partnerships and trusted allies to foster collaboration and resilience. At Armscor, we believe that dialogue and cooperation remain the most effective tools to address shared challenges and to advance global security,” said Mr Cleophas.
The South African delegation included representatives from the Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industries Association of South Africa (AMD), GC2T and Paramount. On the Japanese side, participation was coordinated by the Japan Defence Equipment Industries Association (JADI) and the Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA).
Discussions during the seminar revealed a strong mutual interest in pursuing partnerships that offer reciprocal benefits. To build on this momentum, a virtual follow-up seminar is being planned to facilitate further engagement among more companies and identify synergies for collaboration.
As part of its broader strategy to position itself as a gateway to Africa, Armscor will strengthen communication channels between AMD and JADI to support ongoing dialogue and partnership development.
“We encourage our Japanese defence industry counterparts to leverage the long-standing bilateral relations between our countries and consider investing in South Africa as a strategic gateway to the African continent. The ties between Japan and South Africa span more than a century. Now is the time to harness our unique strengths and co-create defence solutions that address the security needs of today and tomorrow,” concluded Mr Cleophas.
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