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Five reasons every South African should pay attention to the International SEZ Conference

By Mandla Mpangase At first glance, the 2nd International Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Infrastructure and Investment Conference may appear to be another gathering of government officials, economists and business leaders. But it is much more than that. The decisions, partnerships and investments that emerge from the conference could influence where South Africa creates jobs, builds new industries and competes in the global economy for years to come. Here are five reasons why every South African should pay attention. 1. Creating jobs South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. SEZs are designed to attract manufacturers and investors who establish factories, logistics hubs and industrial facilities that create employment. When new investors choose South Africa, they do not only employ engineers and technicians. They also create opportunities for artisans, machine operators, electricians, drivers, security personnel, cleaners, caterers and hundreds of small businesses that become part of industrial supply chains. Ultimately, industrial investment translates into livelihoods. 2. Redefining what industrialisation looks like Industrialisation today is no longer about rows of factories producing goods behind security fences. The conference programme reflects a broad vision that sees SEZs become integrated economic ecosystems that combine manufacturing, logistics, innovation, renewable energy, housing, transport and skills development. Discussions will explore how SEZs can evolve into smart industrial cities that support sustainable long-term economic growth. This is the kind of thinking needed if South Africa is to remain globally competitive. 3. Shaping Africa’s future trade One of the conference’s major themes is cross-border collaboration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Rather than viewing South Africa as a market of 63 million people, manufacturers increasingly see access to a continental market of more than one billion consumers. Sessions will examine how SEZs can strengthen exports, harmonise regulations and build regional value chains across Africa. If South Africa is to become Africa’s manufacturing powerhouse, this conversation is essential. 4. Bringing together people who can make things happen Many conferences feature discussions among policymakers alone. This one is different. The programme includes the President, Cabinet ministers, provincial leaders, global investors, multinational companies, development finance institutions, international organisations, logistics companies, automotive manufacturers and banking executives. These are the organisations that finance infrastructure, approve investments, develop industrial policy and make decisions on where billions of rand will be invested. When these decision-makers share one platform, meaningful partnerships become possible. 5. South Africa’s economic future The conference is about whether South Africa can rebuild its manufacturing base, attract investment, improve exports, strengthen infrastructure and create sustainable employment in an increasingly competitive global economy. The launch of the country’s new industrial policy alongside the conference reinforces the importance of industrial development as a national priority. If South Africa is serious about inclusive growth, reducing unemployment and competing internationally, the conversations taking place in Durban matter to every citizen, not just those working in government or business. The International SEZ Conference is ultimately about how South Africa creates an economy that produces more, exports more, employs more people and competes more successfully with the rest of the world. The answers discussed in Durban could help shape the country’s economic trajectory for decades to come.

World Bank study backs SA’s Special Economic Zone model as TASEZ emerges as flagship of industrial growth

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase South Africa’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programme has received a significant vote of confidence from the World Bank, with a new study concluding that the country possesses the infrastructure, legal framework and institutional capacity required to build one of the world’s leading SEZ programmes. The findings have been welcomed by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, who said the report affirms the government’s long-term industrialisation strategy and provides a roadmap for strengthening the country’s network of Special Economic Zones. The World Bank study found that South Africa’s SEZ programme has a solid policy and governance foundation but identified opportunities to improve coordination, increase investment attraction, deepen supplier development and strengthen monitoring and evaluation systems. It also recommended greater collaboration between national, provincial and municipal governments to maximise the economic impact of the zones. Speaking after receiving the report, Tau said the government was encouraged by the findings, noting that South Africa had laid the foundations for a globally competitive SEZ ecosystem. “The study has found that South Africa has the infrastructure, legal framework and institutional capacity to build a leading Special Economic Zone programme,” Tau said, adding that the recommendations would assist the government in refining policy and improving implementation. The minister described the country’s SEZ programme as one of the government’s most important industrial policy tools for attracting investment, expanding manufacturing capacity, creating employment and increasing exports. He said the World Bank’s recommendations align with the government’s broader objective of accelerating industrialisation and building regional value chains. TASEZ illustrates the model in practice Among South Africa’s SEZs, the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has become one of the clearest examples of what the World Bank’s findings seek to encourage. Established adjacent to Ford South Africa’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, TASEZ has evolved into one of the country’s largest automotive manufacturing hubs and has become central to South Africa’s automotive export strategy. The zone has already demonstrated the economic impact that well-planned industrial infrastructure can deliver. Phase One of TASEZ contributed approximately 1% to South Africa’s GDP during its construction phase, while creating more than 6 000 construction jobs. Since becoming operational, the zone has generated more than 3 400 permanent direct jobs, with thousands more supported across supplier industries and logistics value chains. The development has also channelled more than R1.7-billion in procurement opportunities to South African small businesses while helping local manufacturers integrate into global automotive supply chains. TASEZ is home to numerous component manufacturers supplying Ford’s expanded production programme and is expected to play an even larger role as South Africa transitions towards new energy vehicles and higher levels of local component manufacturing under the South African Automotive Masterplan 2035. Its dedicated Training Academy, developed in partnership with technical colleges and universities, is also addressing one of the challenges identified in the World Bank study—building the skilled workforce required to support advanced manufacturing and industrial growth. Industrial policy delivering measurable results The World Bank’s findings arrive as South Africa’s SEZ programme continues to expand. According to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the country’s network of Special Economic Zones has attracted hundreds of operational investments worth more than R31-billion while supporting tens of thousands of jobs across manufacturing, logistics, agro-processing and technology industries. For South Africa, the report reinforces the importance of maintaining industrial infrastructure capable of competing internationally for investment while supporting domestic manufacturing capabilities. For TASEZ, the findings provide further evidence that the zone represents more than a successful automotive project – it has become a practical demonstration of how modern Special Economic Zones can drive industrialisation, attract global manufacturers, strengthen local supply chains and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth. As the government considers the World Bank’s recommendations, TASEZ is likely to remain one of the benchmark projects that inform the next phase of South Africa’s industrial development strategy.

TASEZ to showcase automotive industrialisation at international SEZ conference

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) will join other Special Economic Zones, policymakers, investors and industry leaders from across South Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and beyond at the 2nd International Special Economic Zones Infrastructure and Investment Conference in Durban on 16 and 17 July 2026. Hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the conference will be held under the theme “Reigniting Industrialisation through World-class Special Economic Zones”. The flagship event is expected to attract more than 1 000 delegates and will focus on strengthening investment, advancing industrialisation and promoting collaboration between government and the private sector. Discussions will also explore the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in supporting regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and South Africa’s broader industrial development agenda. TASEZ acting CEO Andile Sangweni said the conference provides an important opportunity to demonstrate how South Africa’s SEZs are contributing to inclusive economic growth. “This conference brings together the leading voices shaping the future of industrial development on the continent. “For TASEZ, it is an opportunity to showcase the impact of our automotive-focused model, exchange best practices with our peers, strengthen partnerships and contribute to the national conversation on how world-class SEZs can accelerate investment, localisation, skills development and sustainable job creation,” Sangweni said. It will also be an opportunity to learn from others and understand the latest global trends in industrialisation and economic development. The conference will also feature a two-day exhibition where companies operating within South Africa’s SEZs will showcase their products and capabilities, while the SEZ Achievement Awards Gala Dinner will recognise excellence and innovation across the country’s SEZ programme. According to the dtic, the conference will reinforce the role of SEZs as a key industrial policy instrument to attract investment, build world-class infrastructure, boost exports and create sustainable employment opportunities.

TASEZ announces the departure of CEO Dr Bheka Zulu

News / By Tasez

The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) announces that Dr Bheka Clive Zulu will be stepping down from his role as Chief Executive Officer to pursue other opportunities. Dr Zulu’s leadership, dedication, expertise, and contribution to the organisation and its collaborative spirit have left an indelible mark on our company culture and the clients and investors we serve. He played a critical role in driving the success of TASEZ, positioning it as a strategic special economic zone for automotive manufacturing, investment facilitation, localisation, job creation, and inclusive industrial development. Under his leadership, TASEZ continued to strengthen its role within South Africa’s automotive sector and its contribution to the broader industrialisation agenda. The TASEZ board of directors and the entire TASEZ team wish to thank Dr Zulu for his invaluable contribution and the absolute best in his exciting new chapter. To ensure continuity and stability within the organisation, the TASEZ board has appointed Andile Sangweni, the current Infrastructure executive manager, as the acting CEO until a permanent CEO is appointed. Sangweni brings strong institutional knowledge and will ensure that TASEZ continues to deliver on its mandate and maintains stability during the transition period. TASEZ remains committed to its vision of being Africa’s First Automotive City and to its role as a catalyst for industrial growth, investment, transformation, small, medium, and micro enterprise development, and socio-economic development.

Cabinet approves plan to drive job creation

News / By Tasez

Cabinet has approved the revised Industrial Development Strategy for implementation to facilitate employment opportunities through various projects and programmes. “The Industrial Development Strategy is expected to create thousands of jobs each year, with a strong focus on skills development and preparing unemployed people for high-demand sectors such as renewable energy and manufacturing,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Friday, 5 June 2026, in Pretoria. The Industrial Development Strategy prioritises sectors critical to industrialisation, including the protection of strategic industries such as steel, automotive, manufacturing and mining. It also promotes expansion in future growth areas including agro-processing, the digital economy and the green economy. “In addition, the strategy targets sectors with strong potential for economic growth and job creation, especially for young people, including tourism and global business services,” the minister said. She added that a committee of ministers, chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will oversee implementation of the strategy to ensure coordinated delivery and impact. Developed through extensive consultation, the strategy focuses on high-impact, inclusive industrialisation of South Africa’s economy. It aligns with the policy priorities of the seventh administration and is anchored in three key pillars to drive industrial growth and transformation: decarbonisation, digitalisation and diversification. – SAnews.gov.za

Kenyan delegation visits TASEZ to study South Africa’s automotive industrialisation success

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase A high-level Kenyan delegation accompanying President William Ruto on his state visit to South Africa visited the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) on 5 June 2026 to gain first-hand insight into one of the continent’s most successful industrial development projects. The Kenyan delegation was led by the cabinet secretary for investments, trade and industry, Lee Kinyanjui. The visit formed part of a broader programme aimed at deepening economic cooperation between South Africa and Kenya, with both countries seeking to strengthen trade, investment and industrialisation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). During the state visit, Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and William Ruto reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic ties and signed several agreements intended to enhance trade, skills development, transport cooperation and regional integration. For the Kenyan delegation, TASEZ offered a practical example of how strategic industrial policy, public-private collaboration and targeted infrastructure investment can be used to establish a globally competitive manufacturing hub from the ground up. Located adjacent to Ford Motor Company’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Tshwane, TASEZ has emerged as the flagship of South Africa’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programme. Established to deepen localisation in the automotive sector, attract investment and create jobs, the zone has become a model for industrial development, drawing billions of rands in investment and creating thousands of employment opportunities while positioning South Africa as a major automotive manufacturing base on the continent. The Kenyan delegation’s interest in TASEZ reflects growing efforts across Africa to move beyond the export of raw materials and build value-added manufacturing industries capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth. TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu said the visit demonstrated the growing importance of SEZs as catalysts for industrialisation and regional economic integration. “Kenya’s interest in understanding the TASEZ journey is significant because it speaks to a broader African ambition to industrialise, create jobs and strengthen regional value chains. “What we have achieved here shows that with a clear vision, strong partnerships and sustained investment, it is possible to build a globally competitive automotive manufacturing ecosystem from scratch,” said Zulu. He noted that SEZs have become increasingly important instruments for attracting investment and supporting industrial development across Africa. “South Africa’s 12 SEZs collectively attracted R31.58-billion worth of investment since inception in the year 2000,” TASEZ executive for business development, Msokoli Ntombana, noted. “They have shown a net growth of R17.067-billion in the value of operational investments over the seven-year period starting from 2018/19FY, which has led to an additional 28 112 direct jobs being created, demonstrating the impact such zones can have on economic growth and employment,” Ntombana, added. The visit also provided an opportunity for discussions on the practical challenges and lessons associated with developing an automotive manufacturing hub, including infrastructure planning, investor attraction, supplier development, skills training and governance. As South Africa and Kenya seek to strengthen their strategic partnership, industrial cooperation is expected to become an increasingly important area of collaboration. Kenya has identified manufacturing as a key pillar of its economic development agenda, while South Africa continues to leverage its established automotive sector to drive exports, investment and industrial growth. The visit to TASEZ underscored a shared recognition that Africa’s future economic growth will depend not only on expanding trade between countries but also on building productive industrial capacity capable of supplying regional and global markets. For the Kenyan delegation, TASEZ was a case study in how targeted industrial development can transform a vision into a functioning manufacturing ecosystem, creating jobs, attracting investment and contributing to Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda.

Parliamentary committee hears how TASEZ is strengthening South Africa’s industrial future

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase The Parliamentary Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade has heard how the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is helping to drive industrialisation, attract investment and create jobs, while also serving as a model for the future development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across South Africa. The committee conducted an oversight visit to TASEZ on Thursday, 4 June 2026, to assess the impact of government investments aimed at stimulating economic growth, manufacturing competitiveness and employment creation. Addressing the committee, Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Vuyiswa Ramokgopa described TASEZ as one of the most significant industrial development projects undertaken in democratic South Africa. “TASEZ is not simply another industrial park. It is one of the most important industrial development projects undertaken in democratic South Africa and a practical demonstration of how industrial policy can be translated into real economic opportunity,” she said. Ramokgopa said the success of the zone demonstrates the power of cooperative governance, with national, provincial and local government working together to create an industrial ecosystem capable of attracting investment, supporting manufacturing and creating jobs. Ramokgopa noted that the Tshwane region produces approximately 40% of the country’s passenger vehicles and has become the anchor of what is increasingly recognised as Africa’s first automotive city. The automotive sector remains one of South Africa’s most strategic industries, contributing approximately 5.2% to national GDP and generating exports worth R268.8-billion in 2024 to 148 global markets. Since its inception, TASEZ has attracted approximately R5.9-billion in private-sector investment, contributed an estimated R2- billion to the economy, created 5 500 construction jobs and more than 3 400 permanent jobs, while supporting around 10 000 jobs across the broader automotive value chain. The benefits of the project have extended to young people, women, township enterprises and surrounding communities through targeted skills development, enterprise support programmes and a social compact model that is increasingly being replicated elsewhere in Gauteng. The committee also received a broader overview of the national SEZ programme from TASEZ board chair Maoto Molefane, who outlined the strategic role of the country’s industrial zones in advancing economic growth and regional development. South Africa currently has 12 designated SEZs spread across seven provinces, with nine operational and three still under development. Since 2016, the SEZ programme has generated more than 30 000 jobs and recorded total expenditure of R24.2-billion. Molefane highlighted the role of SEZs in attracting investment into priority sectors, promoting localisation and strengthening South Africa’s participation in global value chains. He said the zones are strategically located to leverage access to ports, airports, rail infrastructure and major transport corridors, while supporting balanced regional development and stronger integration with Southern African Development Community (SADC) markets and the broader African continent. Within this national context, TASEZ has emerged as one of the programme’s strongest performers. The zone currently hosts 12 operational investments valued at approximately R5.76-billion. The committee heard that Phase One of TASEZ is fully operational and that bulk infrastructure development for Phase Two is already underway. Construction has also begun on Ford’s new R300-million facility within the zone, further strengthening Tshwane’s position as South Africa’s automotive manufacturing hub. Both Ramokgopa and Molefane emphasised the importance of preparing South Africa’s manufacturing sector for future industrial opportunities, including the transition to new-energy vehicle production, advanced manufacturing and green industrialisation. Molefane outlined the government’s Spatial Industrial Development Strategy, which seeks to build globally and regionally competitive industrial clusters, promote beneficiation and value addition, support black industrialists, deepen local supply chains and integrate township and rural economies into industrial value chains. The strategy also prioritises youth and women-focused skills development programmes, learnerships and partnerships between industry, universities and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges to strengthen the country’s industrial capabilities. While highlighting the achievements of the SEZ programme, Molefane also acknowledged ongoing challenges, including infrastructure constraints, unreliable electricity supply, logistics bottlenecks at ports and rail facilities, skills shortages in underdeveloped regions and delays in municipal service delivery. He said key lessons learned from the implementation of SEZs include the importance of strong political support, national government involvement, reliable infrastructure, effective stakeholder management, long-term planning, sound governance and active private-sector participation. The committee also received updates on major investments taking place across South Africa’s SEZ network, including a R110-billion green hydrogen project at the Coega SEZ, a R16-billion titanium dioxide plant in Richards Bay, a R1.3-billion automotive components facility at Dube TradePort, and major manufacturing, logistics and digital infrastructure investments in East London, OR Tambo and Nkomazi. TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu noted that TASEZ’s continued growth demonstrates what can be achieved when government, industry and communities work together to build productive industrial capacity. “Projects like TASEZ can inspire similar initiatives across our country that will deliver inclusive growth, re-industrialisation and economic renewal,” he added. The TASEZ model shows that economic development can be both globally competitive and locally inclusive. Echoing his message, the City of Tshwane’s MMC for economic development and spatial planning, Sarah Mabotsa, said: “The impact of TASEZ extends far beyond the boundaries of the SEZ itself.” TASEZ represents jobs, investment, economic growth, and opportunity for the City of Tshwane’s residents to put food on their tables, the MMC added. The City of Tshwane is committed to supporting the expansion of the automotive and manufacturing sectors and in April 2025, the council adopted an Economic Revitalisation Strategy to increase economic growth to at least 3,9%. The City has also approved the lease of a property in Nellmapius to support TASEZ’s skills development and training programme. The oversight visit formed part of the committee’s efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of strategic economic development initiatives and their contribution to South Africa’s industrialisation agenda, job creation objectives and long-term economic growth. Responding to the information received, the committee members pointed out that it would be greatly beneficial for the country’s SEZs to work closely with each other, sharing knowledge and lessons learnt.

Parliamentary committee to visit TASEZ as focus turns to jobs, investment and growth

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase The parliamentary select committee on economic development and trade will visit the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) on Thursday, 4 June 2026, to assess the impact the industrial hub is having on investment, job creation and economic growth. The visit forms part of Parliament’s oversight role and will allow committee members to see first-hand how one of South Africa’s flagship special economic zones is contributing to industrialisation and manufacturing growth. During the visit, the committee will receive updates on TASEZ’s performance, including progress on investment commitments, infrastructure development, and the zone’s contribution to the automotive sector and broader regional economy. Members will also examine how the special economic zone is creating employment opportunities, supporting skills development and delivering benefits to surrounding communities. Discussions will cover infrastructure, governance, and the operating environment within the zone, as well as the experiences of investors and tenants. The committee is expected to engage with TASEZ management, representatives from the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, the City of Tshwane, and stakeholders from the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Feedback from investors operating within the zone will also form an important part of the visit, providing insight into South Africa’s competitiveness as an investment destination and the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers. TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu said the visit comes at an important time for South Africa’s industrial development ambitions. “Quality infrastructure remains one of the most important ingredients for attracting investment and supporting industrial growth. Businesses need certainty, efficiency, and reliable services to compete globally. Infrastructure development is therefore about much more than roads and buildings – it creates the foundation for economic activity, job creation and long-term growth,” said Zulu. He said continued investment in the automotive sector was critical to strengthening South Africa’s manufacturing base. “The automotive industry remains one of the country’s most important economic sectors, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to exports and skills development. Every investment in automotive manufacturing creates opportunities throughout the value chain, from component manufacturers and logistics providers to small businesses and local communities.” Zulu added that TASEZ was established to create an environment where manufacturers can invest and expand with confidence, helping South Africa advance its industrialisation and localisation goals. The committee’s findings from the visit are expected to contribute to future recommendations on strengthening South Africa’s special economic zone programme. Since its establishment, TASEZ has become a key driver of automotive investment in Gauteng, helping attract billions of rand in investment while supporting manufacturing growth, skills development and employment creation.

Ramokgopa visits TASEZ as Gauteng pushes industrial growth and investment

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development Vuyiswa Ramokgopa visited the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) on Thursday, 21 May 2026 where she received a comprehensive briefing on the zone’s growth plans and toured one of its key manufacturing facilities supporting the automotive sector. The visit formed part of the Gauteng provincial government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen industrial development, attract investment and create jobs through strategic manufacturing infrastructure projects. Ramokgopa was briefed on the progress and future outlook of the TASEZ project by the organisation’s Executive for Business Development, Msokoli Ntombana. The presentation focused on the economic impact of the special economic zone, ongoing infrastructure development and plans for Phase 2 expansion. Ntombana outlined how the next phase of development is expected to further expand manufacturing capacity within the zone, strengthen supplier networks and unlock additional investment opportunities linked to the automotive industry. The MEC was also taken on a guided tour of the Thai Summit factory, one of the major component manufacturers operating within the special economic zone. The facility supplies automotive metal forming products, interior and exterior finishes, as well as various vehicle components to the nearby Ford manufacturing plant in Silverton. During the tour, Ramokgopa engaged with management and officials on production processes, industrial innovation and the role of automotive component manufacturing in supporting Gauteng’s broader economic growth objectives. The visit highlighted the strategic importance of TASEZ in positioning Gauteng as a leading automotive manufacturing hub on the continent, while also supporting localisation, export growth and employment creation. TASEZ has become a central pillar of South Africa’s automotive value chain, with multiple component manufacturers operating alongside Ford’s production facilities in Tshwane. The special economic zone continues to attract both local and international investors seeking to participate in South Africa’s growing automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors. The Gauteng government has identified industrialisation and infrastructure-led growth as key priorities in addressing unemployment and rebuilding economic momentum in the province.

Economic Development MEC to visit TASEZ to help drive investment in Gauteng

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, is expected to visit the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) on Thursday, 21 May 2026, as the provincial government intensifies efforts to drive industrialisation, attract investment, and stimulate job creation in South Africa’s economic hub. The visit will focus on assessing industrial development initiatives within the automotive manufacturing corridor, exploring investment opportunities, and evaluating the role of the special economic zone in growing Gauteng’s economy. TASEZ, which is anchored by Ford’s Silverton manufacturing operations in the City of Tshwane, has become one of Gauteng’s flagship industrial development projects and a central component of the province’s manufacturing and export strategy. Recent engagements at the zone have highlighted its contribution to supply-chain expansion, infrastructure development, and employment creation. TASEZ has already contributed significantly to economic activity in the region, with supply-chain operations linked to approximately 10 000 jobs. The zone has also positioned itself as a key platform for supplier development, infrastructure investment, and support for small businesses. Ramokgopa’s visit comes amid the Gauteng government’s renewed focus on rebuilding economic growth through industrial expansion, infrastructure investment, and sector-based development strategies. Since taking over the economic development portfolio earlier this year, Ramokgopa has repeatedly stressed the need to grow productive sectors of the economy and strengthen local manufacturing capacity. In recent public comments, the MEC said Gauteng’s economic recovery would depend on sustained investment in industrial capacity, logistics, infrastructure, and innovation-driven sectors such as automotive manufacturing. She has also identified Tshwane as a strategic growth corridor for automotive production, research and development, and advanced manufacturing. The Gauteng provincial government has identified investment attraction and industrial development as critical levers in addressing unemployment and improving economic growth in the province, which remains South Africa’s largest provincial economy.