The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is looking to appoint a panel of service providers for the provision of professional catering services on a need basis for a period of 36 months. Compulsory briefing: 14 August 2026 Time: 10h00 – 12h00 Venue: TASEZ Central Hub Manitoba, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoria, 0081 Closing date: 28 August 2026 by 12h00 Download RFP 028/2025 here
By Mandla Mpangase What began as a logistics consulting business has evolved into an innovative clean energy enterprise that is transforming waste cooking oil into biodiesel, demonstrating how South African entrepreneurs are finding sustainable solutions to support both industry and the environment. Speaking on the sidelines of the 2nd International Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Infrastructure and Investment Conference, Mooketsi Makena, co-founder and owner of Potent Conceptials, said the company’s journey reflects how enterprise support, innovation and partnerships can unlock new opportunities within the automotive and transport sectors. Founded in 2020, Potent Conceptials initially focused on consulting services for the logistics industry before expanding into technology and, more recently, renewable energy. “When we started in 2020, we started as consulting agents within the logistics industry. Our focus was on RTMS (road transport management systems) and PBS (performance-based standards that monitor the operational performance of heavy-duty vehicles), and then we went into the ICT sector, where we are still developing a data and compliance management app for the logistics sector. Late last year, we started our biodiesel manufacturing project,” Makena said. The company’s latest venture aims to produce cleaner-burning biodiesel from used cooking oil, with plans to expand into other sustainable feedstocks. “Biodiesel is clean diesel, so it has fewer emissions. We’re producing it from used cooking oil, and we’re looking at using alternative feedstocks such as sunflower seeds and other oilseeds. When you drive, you’re driving cleaner,” he said. Makena said the idea emerged after he recognised both a market opportunity and an environmental challenge. “I saw a gap in the market within the clean energy industry. Around the world, the focus is now on clean energy. At home we had used cooking oil that we couldn’t dispose of properly. When I researched what could be done with it, it led me to biodiesel. It helps the environment – no more clogged drains and no more soil pollution,” he explained. His company’s work aligns with the automotive industry’s growing emphasis on reducing emissions and adopting more sustainable fuels, highlighting the role that innovative small businesses can play in supporting South Africa’s transition to greener mobility. Makena said support from the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has been instrumental in helping Potent Conceptials gain exposure to investors and potential business partners. “The support I get from TASEZ is important because this is actually the second exhibition that they have sponsored for me. The first one was the Energy Indaba, where I got amazing leads. They are giving me access to investors, partners, and also the market that I need to tap into, so they are quite beneficial,” he said. That support reflects one of the key themes emerging from the conference: that Special Economic Zones are not only attracting investment into strategic industries, but are also creating opportunities for innovative small businesses to commercialise new technologies, access markets and contribute to South Africa’s industrial development. Makena believes innovation is also about making better use of the tools and resources already available. “Young people have tools that we’re not using correctly. AI can give you ideas and teach you new skills. If we focus on learning about areas such as clean energy, we can unlock many opportunities,” he said. Looking ahead, Potent Conceptials aims to establish a fully operational biodiesel production facility capable of producing between 70 000 and 150 000 litres of biodiesel a week, helping to supply cleaner fuel solutions to the transport and automotive sectors while advancing South Africa’s green industrial economy.
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is looking to appoint a service provider for the construction of roads, stormwater, sewer, water, and various upgrades to surrounding intersections (Package B). Compulsory briefing: 21 August 2026 Time: 10h00 – 12h00 Venue: TASEZ Central Hub Manitoba, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoria Closing date: 4 September 2026 by 12h00 Download tender RFP027/2025 here Annexure 1 Annexure 2A Annexure 2B Annexure 3 Annexure 4 Annexure 5 Annexure 6A Annexure 6B Annexure 6C Annexure 7 Annexure 8 Annexure 9 Annexure 10 Declaration of interest BOQ final TASEZ wage rates 2028 – 2028 Tender addendum clarification: Revised Annexure 1A
By Mandla Mpangase A business that started as a car wash in 2018 has grown into a diversified manufacturing company producing automotive components, homeware, medical waste containers and 3D-printed products – a transformation that underscores the role of supplier development and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in building South Africa’s industrial base. Speaking on the sidelines of the 2nd International Special Economic Zones Infrastructure and Investment Conference in July 2026, Zwi Nelwamondo, Managing Director of Lwams Africa Group, said the company’s evolution reflects a deliberate strategy to move beyond participating in the automotive industry as a supplier of services to becoming a manufacturer. “Lwams Africa Group was founded in 2018. We were only doing the car wash business in 2018, and then in 2020 we got a contract to supply these number plates. We just wanted to add value into the automotive value chain, not only by being a middleman, but rather being a manufacturer,” said Nelwamondo. Lwams Africa Group is a Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) enterprise development beneficiary. The shift into manufacturing laid the foundation for a broader product portfolio. Today, the Pretoria-based company manufactures household products including lunch boxes, plates and microwave covers, produces medical waste buckets, and offers in-house 3D printing services using its own equipment and proprietary designs. “Everything is in-house. We’ve got our own machines. We own our designs as well,” Nelwamondo said. He said expanding the business required significant investment in manufacturing equipment, with access to finance proving to be one of the company’s biggest hurdles. “My challenge was more on the finance to acquire equipment. We approached government, and they assisted with funding, and then we were able to get equipment that is currently running in our facility,” he explained. Nelwamondo also credited supplier development initiatives with accelerating Lwams Africa Group’s growth, helping it become part of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone family through its connections to anchor tenant Ford. The company joined Ford’s supplier development programme after responding to a public call for applications. “We applied to be part of the programme, and fortunately enough we got to be part of the supplier development. Ford really played a big role in the success of our company from the inception up until now, and we are looking forward to a continuous relationship going forward,” he said. His experience reflects one of the central themes of the conference – that industrialisation depends not only on attracting investment into SEZs, but also on developing local enterprises capable of integrating into manufacturing value chains and expanding their capabilities over time. For emerging manufacturers, conferences such as the International SEZ Infrastructure and Investment Conference also provide an important platform to connect with potential customers and partners. “A platform like this assists small businesses like us because it’s access to the market. We get to meet other businesses that can be interested in our product offering, and already we’ve got a couple of leads through the engagements we’ve had,” Nelwamondo said. His company’s journey from a small car wash operation to a diversified manufacturer demonstrates how targeted supplier development, government support and access to market opportunities can enable South African businesses to move up the industrial value chain while contributing to a more resilient and competitive manufacturing sector.
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has announced the awarding of RFP018/2025 for the design and construction of top structure services to Ukuza Holdings. See details here
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is looking to appoint a service provider for the supply, delivery, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of an online utility management system, including the supply of meters on an as-and-when-required basis, and the six-monthly servicing of water meter strainers. Compulsory briefing session Date: 14 August 2026 Time: 11h00 Venue: TASEZ Central Hub, in Manitoba, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoria Closing date: 21 August 2026 by 12h00 Download RFP 025/2025 here Download pricing schedule here Download Addendum 1 here
By Mandla Mpangase Deputy President Paul Mashatile has unveiled an ambitious 20-year strategy to transform South Africa’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) into globally competitive industrial hubs, warning that underperforming zones could lose their designation if they fail to deliver jobs, investment, and exports. Delivering the keynote address at the second International Special Economic Zones Infrastructure and Investment Conference at the Durban International Convention Centre on Friday, 17 July 2026, Mashatile said South Africa had entered a “third phase” of industrial development, with SEZs positioned at the centre of the country’s manufacturing-led growth agenda. The conference, attended by government leaders, investors, industry executives, and international partners, focused on the role of SEZs in reigniting industrialisation and positioning South Africa as a competitive investment destination. Mashatile said South Africa’s industrial policy had evolved from the Industrial Development Zone programme introduced in 1997 to the current SEZ model, which is now being strengthened through a new Spatial Industrial Development Strategy. “We are not planning for the next election cycle. We are planning for the next generation,” he said. Central to the strategy is a 20-year development framework approved by Cabinet that will subject every SEZ to formal performance evaluations every five years. The first phase will focus on auditing every zone and establishing measurable performance indicators covering investment attracted, jobs created, exports, and linkages with small businesses. Zones that fail to achieve at least 60% of these targets after five years will face intervention, restructuring, repurposing or even de-designation. Mashatile said future success would depend on reliable infrastructure, effective governance and stronger integration between SEZs, municipalities and surrounding communities. “No zone can thrive in isolation,” he said, outlining six criteria that will guide future industrial development, including infrastructure corridors, natural resource advantages, industrial parks, district economic planning, socio-economic needs and community integration. The deputy president said South Africa’s SEZ programme had already demonstrated its value. Referring to a World Bank assessment, Mashatile said the programme had attracted R14.8-billion in revenue while creating more than 30 000 jobs across industries, including automotive manufacturing, agro-processing, and renewable energy. He singled out the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) and the Coega Industrial Development Zone as examples of successful industrial platforms that have strengthened skills development and local supply chains. However, he acknowledged that lessons had been learnt from earlier industrial zones, where some investment represented companies relocating rather than establishing new operations. Government’s renewed approach, he said, aims to ensure that SEZs stimulate genuine economic growth while delivering benefits to surrounding communities rather than functioning as isolated industrial enclaves. Mashatile said the new industrial strategy is built around three priorities: decarbonisation through low-carbon industries, diversification of manufacturing into higher-value exports, and digitalisation to improve productivity across the economy. The ultimate objective is to raise manufacturing’s contribution to South Africa’s gross domestic product from its current level of about 12%, while addressing unemployment, particularly among young people and women. The deputy president also highlighted the incentives available to investors operating in qualifying SEZs, including a preferential 15% corporate tax rate, manufacturing tax allowances, VAT and customs relief, and employment incentives for youth. Provincial development agencies would continue to provide serviced industrial land, infrastructure, and skills programmes, while municipalities would be expected to accelerate planning approvals and increase procurement opportunities for local small businesses. “Incentives are not entitlements,” Mashatile cautioned. “They are part of a compact. In return, we expect investment, exports, jobs and transformation.” Despite the incentive package, Mashatile acknowledged that South Africa faces intense international competition. With more than 5 400 SEZs operating globally, he said the country could not rely on low costs alone to attract investment. “We compete by being the most strategic, the most reliable, and the most inclusive.” He urged SEZ executives, municipal leaders and investors to work together to improve infrastructure, expand industrial clusters and deepen local supplier participation. Addressing investors directly, Mashatile said South Africa remained open for business but expected investment to contribute meaningfully to local development. “We are not open for extraction. We want you to benefit here, to train here, and to partner with our small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) here.” In closing, Mashatile called for renewed commitment to ensuring that SEZs become catalysts for inclusive economic growth across all provinces. “Our SEZs must become engines of investment, innovation, and opportunity, not islands of prosperity, but catalysts for inclusive growth that will uplift every province and every community across our country.”
By Mandla Mpangase South Africa’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are expected to play an increasingly important role in driving industrialisation, investment and export-led growth, with the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) well-positioned as one of the country’s leading examples of what a modern, high-performing SEZ can achieve. Opening the exhibition component of the 2nd International Special Economic Zones Infrastructure and Investment Conference in Durban on Thursday, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, said the country’s network of SEZs has become a significant contributor to industrial development and will form a central pillar of the government’s long-term economic strategy. Addressing more than 1 000 delegates from government, industry, development finance institutions, and international partners, Tau highlighted the scale of South Africa’s SEZ programme, noting that 13 designated SEZs across eight provinces now host 224 companies, which have collectively invested R31.7-billion and created more than 28 000 jobs. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has invested approximately R12-billion in bulk and top-structure infrastructure to support the zones. “The exhibition floor shows policy in practice,” Tau said, encouraging delegates to engage directly with investors, incentive packages, and development opportunities represented by the country’s SEZs. Among the country’s standout performers is TASEZ, which has rapidly established itself as one of South Africa’s flagship industrial zones. Situated adjacent to Ford Motor Company’s Silverton Assembly Plant in the City of Tshwane, the automotive-focused SEZ has become a benchmark for integrated industrial development, attracting major investment, strengthening local supplier networks, and supporting South Africa’s automotive manufacturing ambitions. The minister cited the expansion of another successful automotive-focused zone, the uMlathuze TradePort Special Economic Zone, as evidence that targeted infrastructure investment can unlock substantial private-sector participation. He noted that the expansion had attracted R16-billion in private investment, alongside billions more from public investors, and created more than 3 300 direct jobs. For TASEZ, these outcomes reinforce the value of the automotive SEZ model. The zone has already become a critical component of South Africa’s automotive value chain by enabling supplier localisation, supporting component manufacturers, and strengthening export competitiveness around one of the country’s largest vehicle assembly plants. Tau also announced that the government will use the conference to table an independent World Bank review of South Africa’s SEZ programme. The findings will inform a revised implementation model aimed at encouraging greater private-sector participation, strengthening financial and non-financial incentives, and introducing mechanisms to improve the performance of underperforming zones. Responding to questions from the media, Tau confirmed that the government had accepted many of the World Bank’s recommendations and was aligning them with its broader industrial strategy. “We see SEZs as a critical part of the industrialisation pathway for South Africa,” he said. Rather than setting arbitrary investment targets, Tau said the government wants SEZs to become catalysts for broader economic development, generating opportunities throughout supply chains and creating value beyond the zones’ boundaries. “It is about the supply chains, the suppliers that come into the industries in the SEZs. It is about value chains that are created,” Tau said. That vision closely aligns with TASEZ’s development model. The Tshwane-based SEZ has consistently focused on expanding local procurement, developing small and medium-sized enterprises, investing in workforce skills, and creating an automotive ecosystem capable of competing internationally. As South Africa prepares for the transition towards new energy vehicles and deeper participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), TASEZ is increasingly positioned to support regional manufacturing and export growth. Throughout the two-day conference, delegates are expected to discuss strengthening SEZ infrastructure, financing industrial development, expanding regional value chains, and unlocking export opportunities through the AfCFTA. The programme also includes export masterclasses, investor discussions, the inaugural SEZ Achievement Awards, and the presentation of new investment commitments and partnership agreements. For TASEZ, the conference represents more than an opportunity to showcase its achievements. It offers a platform to demonstrate how a strategically planned automotive SEZ can accelerate industrialisation, attract investment, and build resilient manufacturing value chains, precisely the role government envisages for South Africa’s next generation of economic development.
By Mandla Mpangase South Africa’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have already proved their value in attracting major investments, but faster decision-making, world-class infrastructure and globally competitive incentives will determine whether the country secures the next wave of industrial investment. That was the central message from a high-powered panel discussion, moderated by Gauteng MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Environment and Nature Conservation Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, during the second day of the 2nd International Special Economic Zones Infrastructure and Investment Conference in Durban. Bringing together leaders from Ford Motor Company South Africa, DP World, Aspen Pharmacare, AIH Group, Nyanza Light Metals and Afreximbank, the discussion explored why investors continue to see South Africa’s SEZs as strategic destinations despite intensifying global competition. Ford South Africa President Neale Hill said the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone had demonstrated how SEZs strengthen global competitiveness by shortening supply chains, improving quality control and supporting just-in-time manufacturing. He noted that South Africa competes not with local manufacturers but with Ford plants around the world for future investment, making efficiency and cost competitiveness essential. Nyanza Light Metals President and CEO Donovan Chimhandamba described South Africa as one of Africa’s most compelling industrial destinations, highlighting its engineering expertise, sophisticated financial markets and mineral wealth. He said the company’s US$870 million titanium beneficiation investment in the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone reflects growing confidence in South Africa’s ability to move beyond exporting raw minerals towards high-value manufacturing. Aspen Pharmacare’s Dr Stavros Nicolaou argued that South Africa remains the continent’s strongest long-term investment proposition, particularly as Africa’s population and healthcare demand continue to grow. He said SEZs help level the playing field against heavily subsidised international competitors while creating opportunities to build pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity closer to African markets. The discussion also highlighted the critical role of finance in accelerating industrialisation. Afreximbank’s Andrew Masuwe outlined the bank’s recently announced US$14 billion country programme for South Africa, including dedicated support for industrial development and project preparation, following South Africa’s accession as a member state. Looking ahead, panellists agreed that South Africa’s SEZs must evolve further by reducing regulatory delays, improving logistics, expanding utility infrastructure and attracting complete industrial value chains rather than isolated factories. They also called for stronger coordination across government and greater use of public procurement to build the scale needed for globally competitive manufacturing. Closing the session, MEC Ramokgopa said South Africa’s SEZs should become catalysts for broader industrial ecosystems that create inclusive local economic growth, rather than remaining isolated centres of excellence. The challenge now, she said, is to ensure the country’s investment offering remains globally competitive while delivering lasting benefits to communities and the wider economy.
The TASEZ Training Academy requires an integrated Learning Management System (LMS) to manage student administrative matters and learning activities. Compulsory briefing session: 5 August 2026Time: 10h00 – 12h00Venue: TASEZ Central Hub Manitoba, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoria, 0081 Closing date: 14 August 2026 by 12h00 Download the RFP 014/2025 here
