Western Cape Launches Free Online Export Course to Help Businesses Access Global Markets

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, August 6, 2026/APO Group/ —

The Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), in partnership with the International Trade Institute of Southern Africa (ITISA), has launched a free Online Export Course to help businesses develop the skills and knowledge needed to compete in international markets. The initiative forms part of the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which seeks to drive economic growth, expand market access, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Since its launch, the self-paced course has attracted significant interest from businesses across the province, with 518 participants registered to date. More than 70 participants have successfully completed the course, with many continuing to benefit from additional export support programmes offered by the Western Cape Government.

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said:

“Export growth is one of the most effective ways to create jobs and stimulate economic development. Through this free Online Export Course, we are equipping entrepreneurs and businesses with the practical skills they need to access new markets, grow their customer base, and contribute to the Western Cape’s export-led growth agenda.”

Positive Impact on Exporters

The course is already delivering tangible benefits for Western Cape entrepreneurs and export professionals.

Alicia Somdaka, Founder and CEO of Imbali Nature’s Crown, an emerging agro-processing business, said the training helped her understand export compliance requirements and provided practical knowledge on export documentation, tariff classification and accessing international markets. Following the course, she registered a business domain and dedicated company email, redesigned her product labels to meet export requirements, and is currently preparing her business for export opportunities in Europe and the Middle East. Alicia noted that the programme provided a practical roadmap that she continues to use as she builds an export-ready business.

Sandiswa Masimini, who completed the Online Export Course, described the programme as an enriching and rewarding experience that provided a comprehensive understanding of export operations, including documentation, compliance, logistics, customs procedures and international trade requirements. She said the course increased her confidence in managing export processes, improved her efficiency, and strengthened her contribution to her organisation’s export activities. Sandiswa added that she would highly recommend the course to anyone seeking to build or advance a career in exports and international trade.

The course provides practical tools, expert guidance, and real-world case studies to help businesses develop effective export strategies and successfully navigate the complexities of international trade.

Key Course Features:

Tailored learning for both emerging and experienced exporters.
Practical, industry-focused content supported by real-world examples and expert insights.
Flexible, self-paced learning through videos, downloadable resources, and assessments.
Alignment with the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy.

Who Should Enrol?

The course is designed for:

Entrepreneurs and SMMEs seeking to enter international markets.
Business development professionals and trade facilitators.
Export managers wishing to strengthen their export strategies and operational capabilities.

What Participants Will Learn?

The nine-module programme provides a comprehensive overview of the export journey, covering: