The France-South Africa business council, established during Macron's 2025 visit to South Africa, has stalled progress despite initial meetings.Key issues include disputes over membership lists, with South Africa's vice-president Paul Mashatile rewriting the list and French co-chair paused.France has become South Africa's largest foreign investor, yet the council remains at an embryonic stage.The council's failure to advance highlights broader diplomatic and economic challenges between the two nations.

Macron's administration had promoted the council as a significant economic milestone, but without resolved disputes, the initiative risks stagnation.The situation reflects deeper tensions in bilateral relations, particularly around investment and governance.