ESG Training for Exporters in South Africa

ESG Training for South African Exporters

Are your EU buyers starting to ask questions about your ESG practices? You're not alone - and getting ahead of these requirements could be the difference between growing your export business and getting left behind.

This training programme is designed specifically for South African companies exporting to the EU. It translates complex sustainability regulations into practical steps you can actually use.

What You'll Learn

EU buyers are increasing their ESG requirements for suppliers, and business partners are increasingly asking exporters to demonstrate compliance. This programme gives you the knowledge and tools to respond with confidence:

• What ESG standards apply to your business and how EU buyers are implementing them
• Practical tools and templates to assess and improve your ESG performance
• An action plan tailored to your company's situation
• Peer exchange with fellow South African exporters navigating the same challenges

Programme Structure

The training runs across three modules - you can join Module 1 for free, or commit to the full programme for a deep-dive into implementation.

Module 1: ESG Foundations (Free, open to all)

6 July 2026 | Online

A high-level introduction to ESG and key EU sustainability requirements. No prior knowledge needed. This session is open to all and comes at no cost.

Module 2: Deep Dive: Standards & Action Planning (Fee-based)

13–15 July 2026 | Online

Three days of structured, hands-on sessions covering specific EU standards, learning about buyer requirements, and how to build a realistic ESG action plan for your business.

Module 3: Implementation & Peer Exchange (Fee-based)

26 October 2026 | In Person - AHK Southern Africa, Johannesburg

A face-to-face session to review progress, tackle implementation challenges, and exchange experiences with fellow exporters and ESG experts.

Pricing

• Module 1 only: Free
• Full programme (Modules 2-3): R1,200 per person

The full programme covers the foundational intro, the deep-dive workshops, and the in-person day.

Who Should Apply

This programme is a strong fit if your company:

• Is based in South Africa and exports (or plans to export) to EU markets
• Is receiving or anticipating ESG-related questions from EU buyers
• Wants to meet international supply chain standards and stay competitive

About the Programme

The training is initiated by the Federation of German Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services (BGA) and the Partners in Transformation Business Development Network, and is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It is delivered in cooperation with AHK Southern Africa and Alliance for Integrity.

Apply by 22 June 2026

Spots in Modules 2 and 3 are limited. Secure your place before the deadline to join a cohort of South African exporters building the ESG capabilities that EU markets increasingly demand.