Absa seeks to help exporters to manage risks and identify opportunities
Absa, in partnership with Freight Training, which specialises in International Risk Management Training and Consulting, will host the 11th Export Risk Management Conference in Johannesburg from 18-21 October 2011.
The conference will focus on risk management strategies, trends and opportunities for active South African export companies.
With opportunities abound for South African exporters, particularly with South Africa’s expanding role as a major trade partner to most African countries, Absa Trade Solutions a unit in Absa Business Bank will address the challenges facing many exporters who operate in today’s international markets.
“We aim to provide an overview of all professional and personal risk liabilities and management solutions that are needed to navigate the world of exports and export risk management,” says Marcel de Klerk, Head of Product at Absa Business Bank.
He adds: “Significant economic growth rests in the hands of the net exporters, companies and individuals, whose products and services contribute to our nation’s GDP, employment capability and our brand reputation internationally.
“It is no secret that the economic and legislative environment that we, as a country and the world, are currently experiencing is a particularly tough one. National and regional economies are facing increasing pressure and uncertainty.”
Mr De Klerk says that Absa acknowledges the complexity of the Forex & Global trade value chain that is, inter alia, brought about by inter-bank relationships, cross border requirements and logistics, dealing with multiple government departments and the administrative complexities that result from legislative and bank-required documentation.
He emphasises that Absa has a responsibility to be more than just a bank. “We do not want to focus on facilitating financial transactions only. We also want to be involved in business and to provide services which cross the boundaries of traditional banking.”
The Export Risk Management Conference is targeted at management; operations and sales teams as well as individuals of any active export company or any company that wishes to enter the export arena or stay abreast of current trends, opportunities and risks.
It is also a valuable networking and sales opportunity identification platform as the conference is usually attended by some of the country’s largest exporting clients.
Guest speakers include members of the South African Reserve Bank, SARS, Customs and Excise, Freight Forwarding and Legal specialists.
Additionally, Absa Capital’s Head of Research Jeff Gable, will provide an economic overview and its implications for the export industry.
NB: The Export Risk Management Conference takes place between 18-21 October 2011 at the Southern Sun(O.R Tambo International Airport Hotel) in Johannesburg.
