South africa: South Africa's economic recovery and long-term growth are built not only in boardrooms and policy meetings, but in everyday choices ordinary South Africans make, says Government Deputy Spokesperson William Baloyi.
According to South African Government News Agency, from the corner spaza shop in Ga-Mokgotho, Burgersfort, to proudly South African brands competing on the global stage, supporting local businesses is one of the most powerful ways to build the economy. "When we choose local, we are not just buying a product, we are financially backing our own people," Baloyi said. This support extends to entrepreneurs running small businesses in townships, young designers turning talent into opportunity, and factory workers whose jobs depend on demand for locally made goods.
Baloyi highlighted that South Africans have the creativity, resilience, and talent to produce goods and services that can compete globally. He noted that every rand spent on local products keeps money circulating within communities, supports families, and helps grow businesses that create jobs. Local brands are proving that South African businesses can compete at the highest level.
Portia M, a successful beauty brand, exemplifies how local entrepreneurship can transform an industry. Similarly, MaXhosa Africa has become a global fashion player by integrating authentic African heritage with high-end fashion, appearing on international runways and opening a flagship store in Manhattan. Whoa Collections, with its premium packaging that combines artistry and sophistication, is another South African success story.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also shown support for local brands, such as the sneaker brand Bathu, demonstrating that supporting local businesses is both patriotic and practical. Over today and Tuesday, Proudly South African celebrated the 14th edition of its Buy Local Summit and Expo at the Sandton Convention Centre. The event continues to play a critical role in converging businesses, government, and consumers to champion local production.
Proudly South African, formed in 2001, is the country's national buy local campaign. It aims to boost job creation by promoting South African businesses, products, and services, rallying consumers, and the public and private sectors to procure locally manufactured goods and services.
The government is committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and thrive. In the 2026 National Budget, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that the compulsory VAT registration threshold for small businesses will increase from R1 million to R2.3 million per annum from April 1, 2026. This reform will reduce compliance costs and administrative burdens for small enterprises, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on expanding their businesses, innovation, and creating jobs.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is finalizing a National Industrial Policy to grow a globally competitive manufacturing sector, with a focus on decarbonization, diversification, and digitalization. Sectoral interventions are supporting automotive manufacturing, critical minerals beneficiation, agro-processing, furniture, clothing, and emerging industries such as cannabis and hemp.
The government is also taking steps to reduce the country's dependence on imported goods. Expanding local manufacturing and procurement strengthens domestic industries, broadens markets, and unlocks opportunities for business expansion. Baloyi emphasized that by simplifying business regulations and compliance, the government is ensuring that companies and entrepreneurs can focus on growth, innovation, and job creation.
Equipping people with the skills and knowledge to participate meaningfully in the economy is equally important. Supporting local businesses helps sustain factories, farms, small businesses, and service providers that employ thousands of people across the country. These efforts are vital in reducing unemployment, one of the most pressing hurdles in South Africa. Tackling this challenge requires coordinated action by the government, business, and labor to increase production, stimulate demand for locally produced goods, and expand employment opportunities.
This vision aligns with the goals of the National Development Plan 2030, which aims to reduce unemployment, poverty, and inequality while building a more inclusive society. During the 2026 State of the National Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that over the coming year, the government will provide more than R2.5 billion in funding to small and medium enterprises, with a focus on women- and youth-owned businesses. Red tape reduction, credit reform, and targeted support will help unlock growth at the local level.
"Every time you choose a South African product, you are not just making a purchase, you are making an investment," Baloyi said. Supporting local businesses is a direct, practical way to fuel the economic vision of South Africa. Collaboration among consumers, businesses, and government is essential to build a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive economy for future generations.