Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone Archives - Page 4 of 14

Investment conferences are turning commitments into jobs

In his latest weekly letter, From the Desk of the President on 18 May 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa reflects on the impact of capital commitments by South African investors. Since the start of this year, we have held a series of high-profile engagements with domestic and international investors. These have included business forums on the margins of visits to Brazil and Spain, the sixth South Africa Investment Conference in March, and, last week, an Infrastructure Investment Summit convened by BlackRock, one of the world’s largest infrastructure investment managers. These engagements are not ‘just for show’, as some people have suggested. They are an opportunity to connect investors with local opportunities, and bring together governments, business, banks and development finance institutions. Around the world, investment conferences and summits are platforms to attract foreign direct investment in a global investor landscape that has become increasingly competitive. The fact that international and domestic investors are willing to commit capital to South Africa demonstrates confidence in our country as an attractive investment destination. Since we launched our first national investment drive in 2018, we have attracted investments in energy, telecoms, infrastructure, automotive, mining, advanced manufacturing and many other sectors. On the back of R1.5-trillion in pledges, a total of R634-billion has already been invested into factories, mines, data centres, power plants and other infrastructure, and have been creating jobs. These include the R4.2-billion investment by BMW to electrify its Rosslyn plant in Gauteng and to support new energy vehicle production; the R500-million investment by Tetra Pak to upgrade its plant in KwaZulu-Natal; Corobrik’s R500-million investment to build its Kwastina plant in Gauteng; and the Newlyn PX terminal in the Port of Durban that began operating in 2024. Last year, I opened the Ivanplats Platreef mine in Mokopane, which originated from a R2.8-billion investment conference pledge. In addition to creating jobs, these investments are supporting skills development to better equip young South Africans for the rapidly evolving world of work. For example, Microsoft has partnered with the Youth Employment Service (YES) to offer globally recognised certification in high-demand AI Skills. This forms part of a more than R5.4-billion investment by Microsoft to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in South Africa by 2027. We welcome all forms of investment, whether it is planned or new. Investment is a long-term commitment. Moving from pledges to large-scale growth and employment creation takes time, particularly in sectors where projects take years to reach implementation. The reality is that we are a long way from where we need to be. One of the most used measures of investment in the economy is gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), which is currently around 14% of our gross domestic product. The National Development Plan challenges us to reach 30% by 2030. Our GFCF reached around 21% in 2008, driven by a sustained commodity boom, the start of Eskom’s build programme and infrastructure expansion ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. There has been a steady decline since then, as the global financial crisis and the period of state capture progressively undermined private investment and business confidence. Since 2018 we have sought to arrest this decline. We have matched intent with action, moving to stabilise public finances, resolve the energy crisis and advance structural reforms. Yet there is still a disconnect between improved investor sentiment and greater investment. The message we have been taking to our meetings with investors is that we are creating the conditions for growth and providing the necessary policy certainty. As we reiterated at last week’s Infrastructure Investment Summit, we are improving project planning, funding and execution. Through this, we aim to narrow the gap between investment pledges, implementation and eventually job creation. We aim to encourage the substantial private capital that is in reserve to be used for productive domestic investment. According to the South African Reserve Bank, by July 2025 South Africa’s non-financial companies held R1.8-trillion in reserves. The task of building a more prosperous, inclusive society is a collective one. It relies on productive investment at scale. That is why we are encouraged that the greatest number of pledges made at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference were from domestic investors. Local businesses – those who know our economic and social conditions best – are making substantial investments in our economy. As we forge ahead with efforts to attract new investment, we call on the local private sector to be at the forefront of rebuilding investment momentum in our economy. Their confidence will encourage more international capital to follow. It is now abundantly clear that the engagements and commitments made in conference halls are steadily and increasingly translating into the economic activity that creates jobs and opportunities for South Africans.

Tshwane councillors encouraged by TASEZ progress after oversight visit

News / By Tasez

Tshwane councillors have expressed confidence in the progress made at the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), saying the project is emerging as one of the City’s most important industrial development platform, writes Mandla Mpangase. Members of the City of Tshwane’s Section 79 Oversight Committee on Integrated Development Planning, visited TASEZ on 12 May 2026 for an oversight inspection and engagement with management. The visit included a presentation by the TASEZ leadership team and a walkabout of two facilities within the Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The engagement focused on job creation, small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) development, infrastructure delivery and the zone’s next phase of expansion, which is expected to deepen Tshwane’s position as one of South Africa’s automotive manufacturing hubs. TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu briefed councillors on the SEZ’s development, performance and strategic positioning as one of Gauteng’s most significant industrial projects, anchored by Ford’s Silverton operations and positioned in the wider Tshwane automotive corridor. Zulu said Tshwane produced about 40% of South Africa’s passenger vehicles and was home to five original equipment manufacturers – Ford, BMW, Nissan, Iveco and UD Trucks – with Chery also expected to enter the market. The region also hosts more than 100 component suppliers and supports more than 40 000 direct jobs in the automotive sector. Since its establishment, TASEZ in its first phase of development has attracted R4.12-billion in government investment and R5.9-billion in private-sector investment. It has created 5 500 construction jobs and 3 422 permanent jobs, while more than R1.7-billion has been spent on SMME procurement. The first phase of the project was largely built around supplier facilities linked to Ford’s R16-billion investment in its Silverton production plan in South Africa between 2020 and 2023, followed by a further R5.2-billion investment cycle from 2024 to 2026. Zulu said the zone’s supply-chain impact extended to about 10 000 jobs and made a significant contribution to GDP. He also highlighted TASEZ’s transformation and enterprise-development work. TASEZ reported that 229 SMMEs had benefited from Phase 1 and Phase 1A, while 265 SMME packages had been awarded and 370 SMMEs trained. TASEZ infrastructure executive Andile Sangweni briefed councillors on the SEZ’s expansion plans, saying the master plan included the 81ha Phase 1, a 10.5ha Phase 1A, an 81ha for Phase 2, and future land parcels. Phase 2 includes an industrial node, the TASEZ Centre of Excellence campus, truck staging and mixed-use elements aligned with market demand. Sangweni said Phase 2 was already being implemented, with work under way on the La Montagne reservoir, bulk water reticulation, bulk electrical infrastructure, roads, stormwater systems and internal engineering services. TASEZ expects Phase 2 to unlock further economic activity, with government investment of R1.95-billion in top structures and bulk services, and private-sector investment of R3.5-billion in machinery, equipment and technology. The phase is expected to create 2 000 construction jobs and 2 500 permanent jobs. The zone is also looking increased SMME procurement, with a minimum 30% of spending earmarked for SMME participation. The visit came as TASEZ advances plans to diversify its energy infrastructure. Sangweni said the zone’s energy plans include a solar independent power producer project by Heshun, which is expected to install rooftop solar photovoltaic and battery storage systems across selected factories in Phase 1 and Phase 1A. The project is expected to provide 20MW of photovoltaic capacity with battery storage, carry an estimated investment value of R600-million and be completed by May 2027. The solar project forms part of TASEZ’s broader green energy initiatives and extends its energy mix programme, which also includes a 20MVA gas-to-power solution. Zulu said the visit was more than a routine site inspection. “For Tshwane, the visit was more than a routine site inspection. TASEZ is an implementation partner of the City, has been in operation for five years and is linked to a memorandum of understanding with the municipality,” he said. “The engagement gave councillors an opportunity to see first-hand the progress being made, the economic impact already delivered, and the next phase of work required to deepen Tshwane’s role in South Africa’s automotive economy.”

TASEZ, partners donate 700 pairs of school shoes to learners

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) and the Community Project Committee have donated more than 700 pairs of school shoes to learners in Mamelodi, Nellmapius and Eersterust as part of the efforts to strengthen school participation in communities surrounding the industrial hub. The handover took place at J Kekana Secondary School in Ward 6 on Tuesday, 5 May 2026. TASEZ said the initiative formed part of its social compact and broader community development programmes linked to the growth of SA’s automotive manufacturing sector. The shoes were sponsored by TASEZ partners, including Thai Summit, Eltek Solethu JV and MES Major Projects. TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu said education remained one of the most critical drivers of long-term economic inclusion, particularly in communities under persistent socio-economic pressures. “Shoes don’t define you. You define where your shoes will go,” said Zulu, encouraging learners to remain focused on education despite difficult circumstances. The donation comes as large industrial developments face growing expectations to show measurable benefits beyond investment, infrastructure and job creation, particularly in communities located near strategic economic projects. TASEZ is positioning itself as Africa’s first automotive city, with plans aimed at deepening SA’s automotive value chain and supporting industrialisation in South Africa. But the scale of the project has also increased expectations that surrounding communities should share more directly in its development gains. Research by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other development agencies has consistently linked access to basic school necessities, including uniforms and footwear, to improved attendance, learner retention and academic performance, especially in under-resourced communities. Statistics South Africa data continues to show that poverty and household income pressures remain major contributors to unequal educational outcomes across the country. Against this backdrop, TASEZ framed the intervention as part of a longer-term commitment to restoring dignity and supporting educational participation, rather than a once-off charitable exercise. Located in one of Tshwane’s largest townships, J. Kekana Secondary School serves a community where many households continue to face economic hardship. The initiative also reflects a broader shift within South Africa’s automotive manufacturing ecosystem, where environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations are increasingly shaping corporate investment priorities and stakeholder expectations. For TASEZ, the message was clear: industrial expansion must translate into visible benefits for surrounding communities if economic development is to be sustainable and inclusive.

Awarded tenders 2025/2026

Tenders / By Tasez

The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has announced the awarding of a number of tenders for 2025/2026. You can view them below. View the awarded tenders for 2025/2026 here

TASEZ begins Phase 2 expansion to bolster automotive capacity

News / By Tasez

TASEZ has broken ground on Phase 2 of its expansion, with bulk infrastructure works and a 15ML reservoir underway, as the SEZ scales up capacity, attracts new investment, and advances localisation in South Africa’s automotive value chain, writes Mandla Mpangase. The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has commenced Phase 2 of its expansion, building on the successful delivery of Phases 1 and 1A as its footprint to strengthen South Africa’s automotive manufacturing capacity. Phase 2 includes enabling bulk infrastructure works and the development of top structures. A key milestone is the construction of a 15‑megalitre reservoir, which began in July 2025 and is being undertaken by MES Major Projects, a black‑owned local contractor. At 13m high, the reservoir is expected to secure a water supply for future industrial activity and support the Tshwane area. External bulk works are underway, while internal bulk construction started on 17 March 2026, marking site establishment and preparation for incoming investors. Top structures will follow, further expanding the special economic zone’s industrial base. “Phase 2 is about integration, readiness, and growth,” said TASEZ infrastructure executive, Andile Sangweni. “The start of internal bulk works signals investor confidence, enabling us to accelerate delivery, unlock investment, and create jobs.” Phase 2 is expected to deepen localisation in the automotive value chain and advance South Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda.

SA investment drive shifts from promises to infrastructure delivery

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase South Africa’s investment agenda is entering a new phase, with infrastructure development emerging as central to converting pledges into visible economic growth, as the country prepares to host the sixth South Africa Investment Conference under the theme “Investment that delivers”. The conference, on 31 March 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, is designed to move beyond policy commitments toward “bankable, deployable opportunities” that translate into measurable outcomes. This shift reflects a broader evolution in the country’s investment strategy – from attracting commitments to ensuring implementation – with infrastructure positioned as the backbone of that transition. Infrastructure at the centre of investment strategy Government and industry leaders have increasingly aligned around a common understanding: without modern, reliable infrastructure, investment cannot scale. Recent policy signals reinforce this priority. In the Presidency Budget vote for 2025/2026, South Africa committed more than R1-trillion to public-sector infrastructure over three years, with a strong focus on transport, logistics, and energy systems – all critical enablers of industrial expansion. At the same time, the South Africa Investment Conference is structured to showcase projects that are not only investment-ready but also already placed within broader infrastructure ecosystems. These include logistics corridors, industrial parks, and sector-focused development zones designed to unlock productivity and competitiveness. Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Parks Tau underscored this approach in the build-up to the conference, noting that South Africa is making its investment case “not with promises alone, but with proof”, as billions in previous pledges are already being funneled into operational projects. More than R600-billion from earlier investment commitments has already flowed into new factories, mines and productive infrastructure, signaling a growing emphasis on execution. Speaking in the run-up to the conference, Minister Tau emphasised that South Africa’s national strategic landscape, underpinned by the Growth and Inclusion Strategy and the country’s ongoing reform agenda, provides a coherent, compelling framework for investors who are serious about long-term returns in a high-potential emerging market. TASEZ: A model of infrastructure-led industrialisation Within this national framework, the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) has emerged as a leading example of how targeted infrastructure investment can catalyse industrial growth. Strategically located within Gauteng’s automotive corridor, TASEZ integrates world-class manufacturing facilities with purpose-built logistics infrastructure, enabling seamless movement of goods between production sites, suppliers and export channels. Its development has been closely tied to anchor investments in the automotive sector, demonstrating how infrastructure, when aligned with industry needs, can rapidly unlock value chains and attract further investment. Crucially, TASEZ illustrates a shift in how special economic zones are being positioned in South Africa. Rather than operating as isolated industrial parks, SEZs are increasingly viewed as integrated ecosystems, combining: This integrated approach is central to improving competitiveness, particularly in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, where logistics efficiency and supply chain reliability are decisive factors. Linking infrastructure to localisation and jobs Infrastructure investment is also directly tied to South Africa’s localisation and job creation agenda. Discussions feeding into the South Africa Investment Conference have highlighted how infrastructure gaps continue to constrain local manufacturing, particularly in component production and supply chain integration. By addressing these bottlenecks, projects like TASEZ are helping to: This aligns with broader industrial policy objectives, with infrastructure viewed as a strategic tool for economic transformation. From investment platform to delivery engine The evolution of the South Africa Investment Conference reflects a maturing investment ecosystem that prioritises delivery, accountability and measurable impact. With infrastructure at its core, the conference is positioning South Africa as a destination where capital is not only welcomed, but effectively deployed. In this context, TASEZ stands out as a tangible demonstration of what “investment that delivers” looks like in practice: a project where infrastructure, policy alignment and private-sector participation converge to create a functioning industrial hub. As the country seeks to deepen its investment pipeline and accelerate growth, infrastructure is the foundation upon which South Africa’s next phase of industrialisation will be built.

TASEZ stakes claim as blueprint for inclusive industrial growth

News / By Tasez

Infrastructure investment, the drive for localisation, and community integration position Tshwane’s automotive hub as a model for economic reform By Mandla Mpangase The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is emerging as a leading model for inclusive industrialisation in South Africa, with government and industry leaders positioning the automotive hub as a practical pathway to drive economic reform, investment, and job creation. This message took centre stage at a high-level investor engagement held in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria, where stakeholders outlined how coordinated infrastructure investment, localisation strategies, and community integration are underpinning the zone’s growth. Addressing investors and industry partners, TASEZ board chair Maoto Molefane said the evolution of the zone reflects a deliberate shift towards ensuring that industrial development delivers measurable socio-economic outcomes. “This is not just about industrial expansion – it is about building a model that works for communities, for investors and for the country as a whole,” said Molefane. He added that, despite persistent economic headwinds, targeted interventions through special economic zones offer a credible mechanism to accelerate industrial growth, deepen localisation and support structural transformation. A model for economic reform and inclusion Gauteng’s head of the Department for Economic Development, Motlatjo Moholwa, described TASEZ as an emerging blueprint for how South Africa can better align industrial policy with community development outcomes. “We are not yet where we want to be, but we are getting there. What we are seeing here is a blueprint – one that can be adapted across the country to ensure that development reaches communities meaningfully,” said Moholwa. Infrastructure investment anchors growth The City of Tshwane COO Vuyo Zitumane outlined the City’s coordinated approach to enabling industrial expansion. “Our focus is on creating a reliable, investor-friendly environment through sustained infrastructure investment and strategic planning. These developments are about positioning Tshwane as a globally competitive automotive hub,” said Zitumane. Localisation and industrial deepening TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu said the zone’s strategy is firmly anchored in localisation, industrial deepening and measurable economic impact. “Our focus is on building an integrated automotive ecosystem that drives localisation, expands supplier participation and delivers sustainable industrial growth. TASEZ is not only attracting investment, but also ensuring that value is retained and expanded within the local economy,” said Zulu. As TASEZ continues to scale, stakeholders say the focus will remain on converting policy ambition into tangible outcomes – from deeper localisation and expanded supplier networks to sustained job creation and community inclusion. With further investment expected in the next phases and infrastructure upgrades gathering pace, the automotive hub is increasingly being viewed not only as a driver of regional growth, but as a test case for how South Africa can translate industrial policy into measurable economic reform.

South Africa’s SEZs under spotlight as leaders push for greater industrial impact

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase Government and industry leaders have called for a fundamental shift in how South Africa’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) deliver value, arguing that stronger integration with spatial planning and industrial policy is key to unlocking growth. This emerged at a breakfast session hosted at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in Illovo, Johannesburg, on Friday, 20 March 2026, forming part of the roadshow to the 2026 Gauteng Investment Conference. Opening the session, Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA) acting CEO Sithembiso Dlamini outlined the province’s strategy to position SEZs as anchors of development corridors, driving infrastructure investment and manufacturing-led growth. She highlighted recent progress in Gauteng’s SEZ programme, stressing its role in catalysing regional economic activity. A central theme of the discussion was how to close the “value-for-money” gap in SEZ investments. Trade expert Donald MacKay presented findings from a comparative study of global and local SEZ performance, noting that while South Africa has made progress, structural and policy shortcomings continue to limit impact. He pointed to the need for targeted reforms to improve efficiency, attract investment, and boost export competitiveness. From a policy perspective, Maoto Molefane, the special advisor to the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition and chairperson of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), outlined the government’s new Spatial Industrial Development Strategy. He acknowledged limitations in the current SEZ model, including fragmentation and uneven returns, and said the new approach aims to better align industrial spending with national development goals. “The focus is on ensuring that every rand invested delivers measurable industrial outcomes,” Molefane said. Insights from operational SEZs reinforced the importance of execution and partnerships. Dube TradePort CEO Hamish Erskine reflected on the evolution of the KwaZulu-Natal-based SEZ, highlighting the role of logistics integration, infrastructure planning, and strong governance in its success. He said the model demonstrates how SEZs can drive broader regional development, including job creation and small business growth. Meanwhile, TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu emphasised the importance of sector-focused development, noting that strategic partnerships – particularly with major investors such as Ford – have been central to its rapid growth. Zulu also pointed to the need for SEZs to adapt to global shifts, including the rise of new energy vehicles, as part of their future positioning. The session concluded with consensus that South Africa’s SEZ programme must evolve beyond isolated zones into fully integrated industrial ecosystems, capable of delivering sustained economic impact, increased exports and long-term investment attraction. The discussion forms part of ongoing engagements ahead of the Gauteng Investment Conference scheduled for 9 April 2026, where infrastructure, manufacturing and industrial policy are expected to take centre stage.

Logistics roundtable sets stage for 2026 Gauteng Investment Conference

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase “The opportunity is not ahead of us – it is here,” the head of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, Motlatjo Moholwa, told participants at a high-level roundtable on logistics in Pretoria on 19 March 2026. With Gauteng contributing approximately 34% of South Africa’s GDP and more than 45% of its manufacturing output, Moholwa used the platform to reinforce the province’s position as the country’s industrial powerhouse and a prime destination for investment. The roundtable, convened by the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) and the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), forms a key part of the build-up to the 2026 Gauteng Investment Conference taking place on 9 April 2026 It brings together senior representatives from government, state-owned entities, logistics operators, manufacturers and investors to align on priorities that will shape Gauteng’s investment pipeline. “This roundtable is more than a conversation,” Moholwa said. “It is a strategic platform feeding into the Gauteng Investment Conference, where we will showcase bankable projects and present Gauteng as an investment-ready destination.” Driving toward an investment-ready province At the heart of discussions is the need to strengthen Gauteng’s logistics ecosystem to support industrial expansion, particularly in the automotive sector, where the province hosts a dense network of component manufacturers and OEM-linked operations from Rosslyn in the west to Silverton in the east, and across the broader Tshwane corridor. Participants are focusing on practical reforms to: These interventions are expected to play a key role in attracting private sector participation and ensuring that infrastructure development aligns with the province’s broader industrial strategy ahead of April’s conference. Localisation and industrial growth A major theme emerging from the roundtable is the importance of component localisation in deepening Gauteng’s manufacturing base. “With its well-developed industrial infrastructure, access to skilled and semi-skilled labour, and strong technical training institutions, Gauteng is not just participating, it is a leading component manufacturing. “This makes the province an ideal destination for investment,” Moholwa said. Moholwa highlighted opportunities in import replacement, the growing automotive aftermarket, and export expansion through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He also pointed to the rise of green mobility as a new frontier for investment, particularly in electric vehicle components and advanced materials. However, he stressed that unlocking this potential will require deliberate action, including stronger supplier development programmes, improved access to finance, and greater coordination between OEMs and local suppliers. Infrastructure is the foundation Infrastructure remains a central pillar of Gauteng’s investment drive. The roundtable discussions are exploring how enhanced road and rail integration, coupled with targeted infrastructure investment, can reduce inefficiencies and improve the movement of goods across key corridors. With established industrial zones, specialised facilities such as the Automotive Supplier Park, and incentives offered through special economic zones like TASEZ, Gauteng is positioning itself as a globally competitive manufacturing hub. “Manufacturers benefit from market access to the SADC region, an established industrial base that reduces the cost of entry, and dedicated facilities such as the Automotive Supplier Park and Special Economic Zones like TASEZ, which offer world-class infrastructure, incentives, and streamlined regulatory processes. Public-private partnerships and government commitment further strengthen the province’s investment readiness,” Moholwa added. Countdown to 9 April As the province prepares for the conference, engagements like today’s roundtable are helping to refine its investment narrative to one based on infrastructure development, industrial expansion and localisation. “Scaling localisation requires deliberate action,” he said. “We must strengthen supplier development programmes to build technical capability and quality standards, improve coordination across OEMs and suppliers, and invest in skills development, technology adoption, and industrial infrastructure. “Equally important is enhancing access to finance and markets for emerging manufacturers and providing policy certainty that encourages local production.” The head of the province’s Department of Economic Development issued a three-fold challenge to the participants at the roundtable: “We call on industry to invest, expand, and partner locally. We call on government and agencies to enable, support, and accelerate. And we call on all stakeholders to collaborate in building a globally competitive, locally anchored manufacturing ecosystem.” Moholwa’s call to action was unequivocal: collaboration between government, industry and institutions will be essential to translate plans into tangible investment outcomes. With just weeks remaining before the conference, Gauteng is not only making its case to investors, it is also shaping the conditions needed to secure long-term, inclusive economic growth.

Logistics roundtable to shape investment agenda ahead of Gauteng Investment Conference

News / By Tasez

By Mandla Mpangase As Gauteng gears up for the highly anticipated Gauteng Investment Conference (GIC) on 9 April 2026, government and industry are intensifying efforts to position the province as a leading investment destination, with infrastructure, manufacturing and the automotive sector at the centre of that strategy. A key step in this journey is an upcoming high-level Logistics Roundtable, convened by the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) and the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ). The engagement will bring together senior representatives from government, state-owned entities, logistics operators, manufacturers and investors to address one of the most critical enablers of economic growth: an efficient, modern logistics ecosystem. The roundtable is not a standalone event, but a precursor to the GIC, designed to ensure that the province’s investment propositions are cemented in practical, bankable solutions. By tackling structural bottlenecks and identifying opportunities for reform, the session will help shape the infrastructure and logistics priorities that will be presented to investors in April. At the heart of discussions will be the urgent need to strengthen freight and corridor efficiency, a longstanding constraint on South Africa’s industrial competitiveness. Stakeholders will explore ways to improve the integration of road and rail networks, reduce congestion, and unlock the full potential of Gauteng as a logistics hub for both domestic and regional trade. Equally important is the focus on infrastructure investment. With growing demand for reliable transport networks, energy systems, and industrial facilities, the roundtable will seek to identify projects that are not only viable but also capable of attracting meaningful private-sector participation. These projects are expected to form part of a broader investment pipeline to be showcased at the conference. The manufacturing sector, particularly automotive production, will feature prominently in the discussions. As one of Gauteng’s key economic drivers, the automotive industry holds significant potential for job creation, industrial expansion and export growth. The roundtable will examine how improved logistics and infrastructure can enhance the competitiveness of manufacturers operating within the province, including those in strategic hubs such as TASEZ. A highlight of the programme will be a panel discussion on component localisation, a key issue for the sustainability of South Africa’s automotive value chain. Panellists will assess how increasing the local production of automotive components can strengthen domestic supply chains, reduce import dependency, and create new opportunities for local manufacturers. However, the discussion will also address the practical challenges of localisation, particularly logistics inefficiencies and infrastructure limitations. Addressing these constraints will be key to ensuring that localisation efforts translate into tangible economic gains. Ultimately, insights from the Logistics Roundtable will feed directly into the Gauteng Investment Conference, helping to align industrial development priorities with the province’s broader investment strategy. By ensuring that policy, infrastructure and industry needs are closely coordinated, Gauteng aims to present a compelling, investor-ready narrative. As the countdown to 9 April continues, the message to potential investors is clear: building a competitive economy requires more than ambition; it demands coordinated action, strategic investment, and a logistics system capable of supporting growth at scale.