CAPE TOWN: Support for the manufacturing sector in South Africa remains a key priority for the government, as this will lead to more sustainable growth and job creation, says Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield. Whitfield was speaking during a site visit to the Usabco Addis manufacturing plant in Cape Town, Western Cape.
According to South African Government News Agency, Whitfield emphasized that supporting the manufacturing sector and developing competitively driven policies will significantly address some of the issues the sector is currently facing. He noted that South Africa is well-positioned globally to explore innovative ways to develop and grow the sector, citing research, innovation, localisation, the green economy, and trade agreements as tools to position the sector as a leader on the continent.
Whitfield commended Usabco Addis for its contribution to the circular economy, highlighting that 40% of the company’s products are produced from recycled plastics. He encourag
ed the company to further increase its use of recycled inputs. With over 800 employees, the Minister was impressed by the company’s efforts to expand its local market share and generate more jobs.
He also mentioned that the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (dtic) funding agencies, such as the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), can be engaged to fund projects that support the sector. The government acknowledges the contribution and investment made by the sector over the years and aims to formulate policies that will sustain it moving forward.
Whitfield pointed out that the African Continental Free Trade Area’s (AfCFTA) initiative to boost intra-Africa trade presents an opportunity for South Africa to capitalize on, as the continent seeks to reduce red tape and enhance trade among African countries. He stated that the dtic’s urgent priority over the next five years is to foster rapid, inclusive, sustainable growth and job creation through manufacturing, services, investments, and export-l
ed growth.