Local procurement is more than a policy instrument, it is a strategic lever that drives progressive change, creates jobs and ensures that belief in South African talent and resilience translates into tangible economic growth.
This is according to Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) Acting Director-General, Dr Malebo Mabitje-Thompson, who was speaking at the 13th annual Proudly South African Buy Local Summit and Exhibition, currently underway in Sandton, Johannesburg.
Speaking on behalf of Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, Mabitje-Thompson underscored the critical role of local procurement in South Africa’s economic development and the need for a resilient domestic industry.
Reflecting on the Proudly South African campaign’s 24-year history, Mabitje-Thompson emphasised that buying local strengthens South Africa’s manufacturing sector and enhances the country’s ability to compete globally.
“We need to embrace local procurement for economic empowerment. Local procurement is more than a policy instrument, it is a strategic lever that drives progressive change, creates jobs, and ensures that our belief in South Africans’ talent and resilience translates into tangible economic growth,” said Mabitje-Thompson.
She further emphasised the importance of ensuring that government agencies align with local procurement legislation, as demonstrated by entities such as Transnet, which have committed to investing in South African enterprises.
“When we procure locally, we bolster our economy and enhance its resilience. In a world where global supply chains are increasingly uncertain, it is vital that we can rely on our industries to supply our critical needs.
“Local procurement is not about shutting out foreign markets, rather, it is about creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth that benefits all,” she said.
Mabitje-Thompson encouraged stakeholders to actively engage in discussions on policies that support industrial growth, including master plans, tariff measures and initiatives to combat illegal imports.
She reiterated that while incentives and industrial financing play an essential role, they cannot replace the fundamental need for a strong and reliable domestic market.
The Buy Local Summit and Exhibition remains a pivotal platform for businesses, governments, and consumers to collaborate in fostering a thriving local economy.
The dtic continues to support efforts that prioritise South African enterprises, ensuring their ability to grow and compete both locally and internationally. – SAnews.gov.za
Watch a Local procurement drives progressive change and creates jobs related video:
Stunning South Africa:
MyPR.co.za offers free to publish press releases for your news site, blog or offline publication. Use the handy REPUBLISH facility or the Full Text RSS Feeds or just copy and paste.
Straton Electrical | Straton Solar | Straton Prepaid | Straton Plumbing | Straton IoT | Straton eBikes | BA Systems | Mbane Contracting | Reach Trust
Easy Street
Van der Merwe was watching a rugby test against the British Lions at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Pretoria. In the packed stadium, there was only one empty seat – next to Van der Merwe.
\”Who does that seat belong to?\” asked his neighbour.
\”It\’s for my wife.\”
\”But why isn\’t she here?\”
\”She died.\”
\”So why didn\’t you give the ticket to one of your friends?\”
\”They\’ve all gone to the funeral.\”
Blackexcalibur
Fun South African Fact: Lions, elephants and giraffes may not roam the city streets, but nature and animals are never too far away in South Africa. From vervet monkeys swinging through tree-lined streets in the suburbs and baboons frolicking around Cape Point to seals visiting the Hout Bay harbour in search of a fishy snack and an array of bird species taking to the sky at any given moment. Wildlife is all around!