AUGUSTA – State Rep. Nancy E. Smith, D-Monmouth, will host the South African Consul General, Fikile Magubane, at the State House today to discuss potential trade opportunities.

The consul general also will be touring businesses throughout the state and speaking with officials about expanding trade between Maine and South Africa.

Magubane is visiting Maine at Smith’s invitation. She met Magubane during a recent trip to New York, where the two discussed agricultural issues and trends.

“International trade is a vital component of Maine’s economy,” Smith said. “It is important to look all over the globe for expanding opportunities.”

Magubane will discuss potential trade opportunities at 1:30 p.m. today in the Business, Research & Economic Development Committee Room, Room 208 of the Cross State Office Building in Augusta.