What’s Next presented by SGS – Johan Eksteen on AI, Compliance, and Digital Trade

In this episode of What’s Next, presented by SGS, Aki Anastasiou is joined by Johan Eksteen, Business Manager for Connectivity & Products for Sub-Saharan Africa at SGS South Africa. They unpack the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape for imported and locally distributed products, and why compliance is becoming more complex as technologies converge and global trade expands. Eksteen explains how stricter requirements, increased documentation, and faster product cycles are forcing businesses to rethink how they approach testing, certification, and market access. The conversation also explores how AI and digital platforms are transforming compliance, making it faster, more transparent, and easier to manage across multiple markets. From cybersecurity risks in connected products to the future of digital trade in Africa, Eksteen highlights how businesses can stay competitive by embracing digital assurance, automation, and smarter compliance strategies.