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French Delegation Opens Trade Mission in Johannesburg Ahead of G20 YEA Summit
The French G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (YEA) Delegation opened its trade mission in Johannesburg on 17 September 2025 at the offices of Forvis Mazars, a member of the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FSACCI). The mission set the stage for the G20 YEA Summit taking place in Johannesburg from 18 to 22 September.
The mission set the stage for the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (YEA) Summit taking place in Johannesburg from 18 to 22 September.
The day began with remarks by Margaux Schaubroeck, Business Development Manager at Forvis Mazars, followed by Camille Tricoire, Country Director of Business France South Africa & Southern Africa.
Areeba Rehman, President of Citizen Entrepreneurs, explained that the mission gives entrepreneurs the chance to approach the South African market with better understanding.
Dr. Yves Guenon, President of FSACCI, spoke on the business climate in South Africa, highlighting the do’s and don’ts for companies entering the market.
Benjamin Dichamp and Daniel Guizard of RYDGE Conseil presented International Coaching, a new programme supported by Citizen Entrepreneurs. Harold Zime, Sherpa of the French Delegation, led a round table with entrepreneurs already established in Johannesburg.
Speakers included Nicolas Hamel from CODRA, Sean Ammon, CEO of CIBA Industries, and Sébastien de Place, Associate Director at Forvis Mazars, FSACCI Director and President of the French Foreign Trade Advisors (CCE) in South Africa.
Valérie Chesnau and Laure Meurville Le Paul of BNP Paribas spoke about SME support in South Africa. Philippe Lerouge, CEO of Lease a Bike France, outlined how its service enables companies to offer bicycles to employees.
The first day focused on sharing experiences, learning about local realities, and preparing for the G20 YEA Summit. FSACCI members CODRA, CIBA Industries, and Forvis Mazars played an active role in the programme.
