Feb 15 - The proposed deal between Wal-Mart and South Africa's Massmart Holdings should support local procurement and job creation in Africa's biggest economy, South African Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel said on Tuesday.

Exterior of an Arkansas Walmart Supercenter

Patel said his department is in talks with both the U.S. retailer and South African unions who oppose the deal. Wal-Mart has bid for a controlling stake in Massmart, but still requires approval from the country's Competition Tribunal.

"What we would be seeking to ensure is that there is strong local procurement, that the South African supply base is supported and that our capacity to create jobs locally is highlighted and this is what the conversation with Wal-Mart is about," Patel told reporters.

(Reporting by Wendell Roelf, editing by David Dolan)