Johannesburg – Fifty South African small business operators are set to receive three months of e-commerce training in China.
The training will be provided towards the end of 2026.
This programme is fully funded by the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) at a total cost of R6.6 million.
Through its partnership with the Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange Centre (CCIEEC), the W&RSETA aims to develop small business operators with advanced expertise in e-commerce.
This initiative seeks to strengthen the wholesale and retail trade sector and enhance the growth of small businesses in South Africa.
During the three-month programme, participants will receive training in key areas such as online store management, digital marketing, and international trade.
In addition, they will gain practical exposure to China’s wholesale and retail e-commerce sector, including best practices and industry insights.
This programme began four years ago when the W&RSETA funded its first intake of 82 TVET graduates to undergo similar training in China.
In January 2026, the second intake was sent to China and is expected to complete its one-year programme in December 2026.
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The third intake of this programme has recently been advertised by the W&RSETA and is open to small businesses that have been operating for at least one year, with a minimum annual turnover of R60 000. Applications close on Saturday, 31 May 2026.
E-commerce training has been identified by the W&RSETA as one of the fastest-growing opportunity areas, with significant potential for job creation and entrepreneurship development within South Africa’s wholesale and retail sector.
