You’ve crafted something special—be it handcrafted jewelry, bespoke clothing, striking art, or locally manufactured goods. Your community loves it, and the demand is real. But then someone asks, “Have you considered exporting?” Suddenly, the world of international trade feels like a maze.
What’s an HS code? How do you find buyers in Germany or the United States? What’s the deal with customs?
For many, this confusion stalls ambitions. The leap from “I could sell overseas” to “I actually know how to do it” seems enormous.
That’s exactly where DHL GoTrade steps in.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap for South African Exporters
Most logistics companies focus on moving parcels from A to B. But DHL looked closely at South Africa’s export landscape and realised that the true barrier isn’t shipping—it’s knowing how to navigate the entire export journey.
DHL GoTrade is more than just a shipping service; it’s a capacity-building movement. In partnership with chambers of commerce and government bodies, GoTrade delivers practical export training designed to equip you with the know-how to ship your first international order confidently.
The programme covers what really matters:
Export documentation made straightforward—even commercial invoices become clear
Navigating regulatory requirements for various markets
Demystifying customs procedures
Logistics essentials, from air freight options to understanding Incoterms
Building an online presence to help international buyers discover your brand
What sets GoTrade apart? It’s not just classroom theory. There’s real mentorship with export experts ready to support you, plus networking opportunities to connect with fellow exporters and potential buyers.
The Fellowship Programme: Tailored Support for Serious Exporters
For those ready to dive deeper, the Fellowship Programme offers an immersive, eight-month partnership.
A postgraduate business student teams up with your SME, dedicating 12 to 15 hours a month to work alongside you—not just advising, but rolling up sleeves and helping implement strategies.
Here’s how the journey unfolds:
Months 1-2: Assessment
You and your student partner take stock—what products are truly export-ready? What gaps exist? What’s needed to secure that first international sale?Months 3-4: Strategy Development
Together, you research target markets, analyse competitors, understand regulatory hurdles, and craft a realistic export plan tailored to your resources.Months 5-6: Capability Building
This phase focuses on the nuts and bolts—setting up documentation systems, ensuring compliance, strengthening your digital footprint, and creating marketing materials for global audiences.Months 7-8: Launch and Learn
You make real export sales. The student supports you through challenges like customs delays or customer queries, helping you refine your approach.
By the end, you’re not just exporting—you’ve built systems, gained skills, and grown the confidence to keep expanding internationally.
Who Should Get Involved?
SMEs: If your products have genuine export potential, and you’re ready to commit time and embrace fresh ideas, this is for you. You don’t need to be perfect—just functional and eager to grow.
Postgraduate Business Students: If you’re fluent in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, have work experience, strong analytical skills, and can dedicate 12-15 hours monthly over eight months, this is your chance to make an impact.
Extended Application Window for the DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program
The ongoing applications for the 2026 DHL GoTrade GBSN Fellowship Program, a partnership with the Global Business School Network (GBSN) has been extended to 26 October 2025, and you can still apply. It’s focused on helping small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) expand their operations globally.
The program provides participants with:
Expert-led training in international trade, e-commerce, and customs.
Collaboration with post-graduate students to tackle specific business challenges.
Networking opportunities with other SMEs and DHL professionals.
The application deadline is now 26 October 2025. Interested businesses can find the application details here.
Championing Women and Youth Entrepreneurs
DHL GoTrade intentionally supports women- and youth-led businesses. In South Africa, where youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge and women entrepreneurs face unique hurdles, opening doors to international trade is not just equitable—it’s smart economics.
Exporting SMEs tend to grow faster and create more jobs than those selling only locally. This programme is about creating real opportunities where they’re needed most.
Tapping into Bigger Opportunities
AGOA Access: South African products enjoy duty-free entry to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. But access alone isn’t enough—GoTrade shows you how to capitalise on it.
De Minimis Advantage: For shipments under $800 to the US, there’s no duty or formal customs clearance. This low-barrier path is perfect for testing markets and building export momentum.
Sustainability Credentials: As global buyers focus more on environmental and social responsibility, GoTrade helps you demonstrate your sustainability strengths—positioning your business for premium markets.
Taking the First Step
If you’re a business, ask yourself: Are my products export-ready? Can I meet international demand? Dive into GoTrade’s free resources, connect with your chamber of commerce or DHL Express office, and explore local programmes.
If the Fellowship sounds like your path, start crafting your application. Think deeply about your goals and how you’ll collaborate with your student partner.
Don’t wait for perfection. Make that first export sale, learn from it, and keep building.
Students, this is your chance to develop skills that truly matter in the real world. Network, learn, and prepare to make a difference.
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