Cape Town: The clothing and textile sector is positioned as a crucial component in South Africa’s economic recovery and re-industrialisation, according to Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting and 20-year anniversary of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster at UVU Africa in Cape Town, Whitfield emphasized the sector’s pivotal role in revitalizing the economy.
According to South African Government News Agency, Whitfield outlined the government’s ambitious targets, which include creating 100,000 new direct jobs in manufacturing, achieving a 4.1% growth in manufacturing exports, and maintaining a 3% average annual GDP growth during the current government term. He stated that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is implementing a bold and coordinated industrial strategy to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation under the Government of National Unity.
Whitfield pointed out that the revitalization of the sector cannot be achieved by the government alone. He stressed the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders through platforms such as clusters, factory floors, skills development hubs, and local ecosystems that address problems and scale practical solutions daily.
He praised the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC) as a catalyst for industry growth, noting its role in strengthening local supply chains, enhancing productivity, and enabling firms to respond to global market demands. Whitfield highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the trade imbalance, which has led to a 223% increase in imports within the sector, by working with partners through the Retail-Clothing Textile Footwear Leather Master Plan.
Whitfield urged a focus on boosting export capacity by prioritizing quality, reliability, and compliance to penetrate key global markets with premium finished goods. He emphasized the need to transition from exporting raw inputs to supplying premium finished products, stating that the groundwork for this shift is already in place. Through collaboration, innovation, and continued investment in people and partnerships, Whitfield believes the sector can thrive.