CANADA- Six Eastern Cape companies are making waves at Grocery Innovations Canada(GIC) 2025, one of North America’s premier grocery and food exhibitions, which took place at the Toronto Congress Centre on 28 and 29 October 2025. The companies, supported by the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), are Coti Chocolates, Spice Kit, Rocha Natural Products, Tio Ze, Lathitha Wines and Nodayimani Investments.
A game-changing trade mission is underway, backed by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and powered by the Sector Specific Assistance Fund. The six Eastern Cape companies are breaking into international markets, seeking to shake hands with global buyers, amplify their brand and cement their position in the global arena.
ECDC Trade Promotion Specialist Linda Lubengu emphasised that, “The Eastern Cape’s participation at GIC 2025 is a crucial market access opportunity for local manufacturers. Canada presents a stable, high-income, rules-based market with growing consumer demand for authentic, natural and ethically sourced products an attribute that aligns closely with the Eastern Cape’s offering.”
The food and beverage sector is a significant economic driver and export opportunity for the Eastern Cape, contributing to employment, rural development and export diversification.
The ECDC is also participating in the Engage Trade Africa Exhibition in Durban, showcasing Eastern Cape enterprises and promoting intra-African trade. This aims to strengthen regional value chains and position local businesses to leverage opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) .
Photographs: supplied
