The Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) scheme is a government-backed programme administered by the dtic (Department of Trade, Industry and Competition) to help South African businesses access and grow in international export markets. The scheme also supports efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into South Africa.
EMIA provides financial assistance to cover costs associated with individual exhibition participation, primary market research, FDI recruitment missions, and inward buying missions. The programme is particularly focused on expanding the participation of SMMEs and historically disadvantaged individuals (HDIs) in export activities.
Key objectives include providing marketing assistance to develop new and existing export markets, assisting with market research to identify new export opportunities, supporting patent registrations and quality marks that enhance competitiveness, and facilitating FDI through missions and research. The programme is open to South African manufacturers, exporters, trading houses, commission agents, and industry associations.
Financial assistance covers practical export costs such as economy-class airfare, exhibition space rental, stand construction, sample transport, subsistence allowances, interpretation fees, internet and telephone costs, and marketing materials. Patent registration in foreign markets is supported at 50% of additional costs up to R100 000 per annum.
The EMIA scheme is available to the following South African entities:
The programme specifically aims to increase the contribution of black-owned businesses and SMMEs to South Africa’s economy through export development.
EMIA provides cost-sharing assistance across several support types:
Applicants must be South African registered entities that fall within one of the eligible categories:
Assistance is available for approved international activities. Applicants are advised to apply before committing to travel or exhibition bookings. All claims must be supported with relevant invoices and proof of payment. The scheme has a particular focus on SMMEs and black-owned businesses in line with transformation objectives.
To apply for EMIA assistance:
You likely qualify if:
You likely do not qualify if:
Applicants must provide details of the planned international activity including the name and dates of the exhibition or mission, estimated costs, and evidence of South African export activity.
Trading houses and commission agents must represent at least three SMMEs or HDI-owned businesses. Export councils and industry associations must represent at least five South African entities.
the dtic Contact Centre
Phone: 0861 843 384
For application forms and further information, contact the dtic Contact Centre or visit the official website at www.thedtic.gov.za
Most applications are delayed or declined due to incomplete submissions. Preparing the items below upfront will significantly improve your chances.
Core documents (required for almost all funds)
Project‑specific documents (depending on the fund)
Additional requirements
Timelines vary by fund and depend heavily on the quality and completeness of your application.
Email Address: NFMcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Mahlatse Mothapo: 012 394 3554 / 082 903 5845
Ms. Jane Mtshali: 012 394 1385
Email Address: NGLcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. David Molefe: 012 394 1262
Ms. Selinah Swaratlhe: 012 394 1140
Email Address: WCcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Elias Rafapa: 021 480 8064 / 063 688 6466
Mr. Vuyo Zitha: 021 480 8055 / 066 306 8424
Ms. Monica Masangwana: 021 480 8063 / 082 647 3611
Email Address: ECcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Andre Le Grange: 041 502 9000 / 060 753 0751
Mr. Simphiwe Ngonyama: 060 753 0663
Ms. Princess Konza: 072 295 4806
Email Address: KZNcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Wiseman Myeni: 076 129 9697
Ms. Rajeshri Sardha: 072 295 1480
Ms. Neela Govender: 072 296 0369
Ms. Constance Gumede: 072 296 1837
Use the following tools to help you apply:
