By Nangamso Mabindla
11 October 2004

THE Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 93rd anniversary in South Africa at Turnbull Park in East London on Saturday,
9 October.

During the colourful event, attended by the province's MEC for social development Neo Moerane-Mamase and officials from the Chinese government, the chamber pledged to support emerging businesses in the province.

The director general for the Taipei Liaison Office in Cape Town, Tim Yung, said the celebrations were also aimed at creating awareness about Taiwanese culture in the province.

"We also want to form a relationship with the Buffalo City community. This will, in turn, create an understanding between us and the local people."

Such an understanding would also put an end to perceptions that Chinese businesses sold counterfeit goods. "We would like to show that the chamber is all about building a good business relationship with the provincial and local authorities," Yung added.

Moerane-Mamase urged Chinese businesses to invest in the province and assist in developing its people. "I know crime is a problem, but I assure you that we're doing something about that. The Eastern Cape is one of the safest provinces in the country - a big plus for potential investors," she said.

Moerane-Mamase urged investors to work closely with government departments, especially those of tourism and home affairs.

"I would also like to ask you to contribute to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan aimed at eradicating poverty in the province. We've targeted 2014 to end all poverty in the province," she added.