South Africa’s manufacturing industry faces formidable challenges. Statistics SA’s recent quarterly manufacturing review revealed the seasonally adjusted volume of manufacturing output is at the same level it was in 2006 and flat-lining.
Manufacturing sales between the last quarter of last year and first quarter of this year were down 3.1% or R14.7 billion. Also, despite South Africa’s weak currency, the country’s export performance is disappointing. South Africa’s manufacturing sector contributes about 15% toward GDP and is vital for creating employment in an economy where, on average, one in four people has been unable to find work for over a decade. With this in mind, government plans to spend R5.8 billion over the next three years to help manufacturers affected by the global economic downturn upgrade their factories, improve products and train workers.Manufacturing Indaba
The Manufacturing Indaba is being organised by the South African Department of Trade and Industry, the Manufacturing Circle and the City of Ekurhuleni, along with know-how contributor Deloitte. Taking place on 29 and 30 June this year at Emperors Palace, the Indaba will bring together business owners, industry leaders, government officials, investors and professional experts to discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions to industrial development of the local economy.
Aiming to focus on the growth potential of key industry sectors, the Indaba’s focus includes vehicle manufacture, construction, metals, forestry, paper and packaging, chemicals, aerospace and defence, and industry products and services.
Additionally, the Indaba will address the most pressing issues facing manufacturing businesses such as financing, incentives, skills development and productivity. Decided upon by a steering committee comprising government, the private sector and industry experts, the Indaba’s programme themes and topics will allow delegates to explore strategies for growth whilst learning about incentives available to South African manufacturers.Programme themes include:
- Energy efficiency and alternative power for manufacturing,
- The best of South African manufacturing,
- Advanced manufacturing partnerships for innovation and value adding,
- Industrial financing, incentives and private sector investments
- Localisation for supply chain development and local production
- Spacial Interventions for industrial development including Aerotropolis development and Special Economic Zones
