Business France Invest: attractivity sequence in Johannesburg

South African Entrepreneurs Explore Opportunities in France, Europe’s Top Investment Destination.

In 2024, France reaffirmed its position as Europe’s leading destination for foreign direct investment, outpacing Germany and the United Kingdom for the sixth consecutive year. With 1,025 investment decisions recorded by an independent EY study, the country continues to attract global investors thanks to its innovation potential, strategic location, and business-friendly ecosystem. 

To highlight these opportunities for South African entrepreneurs, Business France hosted an exclusive breakfast meeting in Johannesburg on 20 August 2025. The event brought together C-suite executives, investors, and representatives from the French Trade Advisors in South Africa (CCEF) to showcase France as a thriving hub for international business. 

The gathering featured insightful presentations by H.E. David Martinon, French Ambassador to South Africa, Lesotho & Malawi, Nicole Blasyk from Business France, and industry leaders including Sebastien de Place of Forvis Mazars, Olivier Perillat-Piratoine of Club Med South Africa, and Dr Stavros Nicolaou of Aspen Pharmacare. Guests learned firsthand how France’s innovative ecosystem and supportive infrastructure can benefit ambitious South African companies. 

The breakfast was more than a networking event, it was a glimpse into a world of possibilities. For South African entrepreneurs with global ambitions, France is not just a destination; it’s a springboard for growth, innovation, and international success.