'Second, the government of India has identified South Africa and in fact Africa as a focus region, and these objectives are met by the fact that a very important part of Decorex is buyer-seller meets where our exhibitors can make presentations.'

Dasbiswas said there had been particular interesting Indian ceramic tiles from South African buyers, who have been largely reliant on Italian imports until now.

South African exporters are also being encouraged to attend similar expos being planned in India by Capexil.

Suri said although South Africa was already India's largest trading partner in Africa and bilateral trade had grown from zero in 1994 to over $6.3 billion last year, the potential for further growth was enormous.

'The Indian Business Forum established by the consulate two years ago already has 43 Indian companies that have established a presence in South Africa,' Suri said.

'Between them, these companies are executing projects worth over $2 billion in (South Africa).'

Suri expressed optimism that the participation of the Capexil delegation in Decorex would create tangible opportunities for Indian companies to establish partnerships with their South African counterparts in this African country's construction industry.