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SA committed to meeting climate change undertakings

Location: News

SA committed to meeting climate change undertakings

Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Dr Dion George, has assured of South Africa’s commitment to meeting its undertakings under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement.

George said South Africa is working on its second Nationally Determined Contribution, and the country has also committed to updating and submitting its first Biennial Transparency Report.

“We will contribute our fair share and not make false promises that we are unable to keep,” George said.

George was speaking at the Brazil, South Africa, India and China (BASIC) Ministerial Meeting held on Sunday, ahead of the 8th Session of the Ministerial Meeting on Climate Action (MoCA) taking place in Wuhan, China.

The Ministers responsible for climate change from the BASIC countries gathered for the bi-annual meeting to discuss key issues related to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) negotiations at the upcoming Conference of Parties (COP29).

These include the need to finalise the rules around carbon markets, adaptation indicators, the Just Transition Pathways Work Programme, the Mitigation Work Programme, and the new collective quantified goal (NCQG) on finance.

In his opening remarks, George said South Africa is focused on implementing ambitious actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including through the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET-IP).

The implementation of this plan includes actions around electricity, electric vehicles and green hydrogen and, said the Minister, South Africa is interested in partnering with BASIC and other countries towards its implementation.

“The Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with some developed countries is only a small component of our much larger energy transition plan, which in turn is only one sector of the all-of-economy and all-of-society just transition we seek in line with the COP28 UAE Vision.

“Our Parliament has adopted a Climate Change Bill [and] since 2011, when we outlined South Africa’s response to climate change in our National Climate Change Response White Paper, we have been putting in place the components of an integrated response. Now, this Bill will integrate all of these components into a robust legal framework, and mainstream climate action across government,” George said.

For South Africa, progress is required in terms of emission reduction obligations, adaptation commitments and the means of implementation “to ensure that we are on track to achieving the 1.5-degree target, and that support for both adaptation and loss and damage will address all likely outcomes”.

The Minister said the country believes that COP29 should enable enhanced, effective and sustained international cooperation on both adaptation and mitigation (equally treated), to achieve the missing ambition in climate actions to date.

“Developed countries’ commitment to providing adequate support to developing countries, is key for the Paris Agreement to be truly applicable to all. The global North should ensure no backtracking on support obligations,” the Minister said.

Ministerial on Climate Action

Meanwhile, MoCA, which is taking place on 22 -23 July 2024, is a key moment for ministers and senior climate diplomats to gather, coming shortly after the UNFCCC intersessional in June.

The meeting will be a chance to elevate sticky issues in climate negotiations to a higher political level.

MoCA is one of the platforms created at the initiative of individual States in support of the UNFCCC negotiations that seeks to identify issues of convergence and divergence at a political level, with a view to bridge building and exploring potential landing zones ahead of the COP.

Convened by China, the European Union (EU) and Canada, MoCA was initiated in 2017 to support the Paris Agreement and the multilateral climate process. - SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 07/22/2024 - 10:56

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The dtic to support programmes outlined by the President

Location: News

The dtic to support programmes outlined by the President

Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) Minister Parks Tau says his department's mandate is clear in that it will work to support and enhance the programmes instructively outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the Opening of Parliament Address in Cape Town on Thursday evening.

“This is important, especially if we calculate the costs of poverty which constitutes 60 percent of the National Budget,” Tau said.

Responding to the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Friday, Tau said the reality is that government has to adopt a mission-oriented approach to industrial policy and strategy.

“As such, we must implement with laser focus, the programme of priorities outlined in the Government of National Unity (GNU) to benefit all South Africans, most particularly, women, the youth majority and people with disabilities,” Tau said.

He said if government does not implement the priorities of social justice, and poverty alleviation, then the nation-building and social cohesion projects will remain an elusive ideal.

“In line with what the President said when talking about smart industrial policy, the dtic  group will implement sectoral plans building on the successes recorded in the automotive, clothing and textiles, retail and agro-processing sectors.

“Smart industrial policy speaks to underlining beneficiation and export-led growth. It highlights the imperatives of the Public Procurement Act that will complement the essential legislative tools to unlock localisation and transformation.

“Every year the South African economy spends 25% of the national wealth created on imported goods. Not only is this propensity to import much greater than our competitor countries, it is also out of sync with our developmental needs,” Tau said.

Tau said government will reverse this in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, green industries, food products and manufactured goods, among others.

He said smart industrial policies and programmes are being implemented to respond to the global market trends towards electric vehicles.

“As you know, in February this year, the Minister of Finance announced that the government will introduce an investment allowance for new investments. This will see producers having the opportunity to claim 150 percent of qualifying investment expenditure on electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles within the initial year.

“On structural transformation relating to B-BBEE, the dtic group will use the public procurement regime to advance B-BBEE and SMMEs. We will work with National Treasury to ensure that the Procurement Bill, under consideration by the President is implemented,” Tau said.

The Minister said government is aware that the Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) elements of the B-BBEE Codes have the potential to raise several billions from the private sector.

“Therefore, working closely with the B-BBEE Commission in monitoring the contributions of the ESD, black industrialists and SMMEs will benefit from such financial contributions.

“Our common prosperity is contingent on building a better life for all, and not for some. In line with what the President said, the DTIC group will refocus on industrialisation in a targeted manner using available policy instruments.

“Our message to our SADC partners is a call-to-action for a united effort to promote regional industrialisation. This will leverage South Africa’s trade with Africa which has increased significantly, growing from just over R343 billion in 2019, to just under R547 billion in 2023,” Tau said.

In his Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), President Cyril Ramaphosa said government had decided to place inclusive economic growth at the centre of the work of the Government of National Unity and at the top of the national agenda.

“The Government of National Unity will pursue every action that contributes to sustainable, rapid economic growth and remove every obstacle that stands in the way of growth,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 15:33

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Read moreThe dtic to support programmes outlined by the President

South Africa’s ‘renewable energy revolution’ a tantalising prospect

Location: News

South Africa's 'renewable energy revolution' a tantalising prospect

President Cyril Ramaphosa has touted South Africa’s “renewable energy revolution” as one that will foster “significant growth and job creation in the next decade and beyond”.

The President was delivering the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday evening.

South Africa bears a climatic advantage which allows the country to draw energy from, among others, the sun and the wind. Added to that, the country boasts the critical presence of rare earth minerals needed for renewable energy technologies.

“As we undertake a just transition towards renewable energy, South Africa must create a green manufacturing sector centred on the export of green hydrogen and associated products, electric vehicles and renewable energy components.

“We have seen, for example, how the Northern Cape has already attracted billions of Rands of investment in renewable energy projects. South Africa is undergoing a renewable energy revolution that is expected to be the most significant driver of growth and job creation in the next decade and beyond,” the President said.

Government has also worked hard to open the door to renewable energy independent power producers to take up projects to not only strengthen the grid but create employment opportunities as well.

“We already have a huge pipeline of renewable energy projects, representing over 22 500 MW of new generating capacity, estimated to be worth around R400 billion in new private investment. Investments such as these will create many jobs.

“Just this week, we saw the largest-ever private energy project connect to the grid near Lichtenburg in the North West, with over 390 000 solar panels that will add 256 MW to the grid. 

“We will see more of these projects taking shape across our country in the months and years to come. As these investments reach fruition more jobs will be created,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:41

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Read moreSouth Africa’s ‘renewable energy revolution’ a tantalising prospect

South Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050

Location: News

South Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre in Pretoria, President Ramaphosa said the revised Nationally Determined Contribution balances the country’s developmental needs and economic realities.

“It takes into account the feasibility of undertaking a climate response through a set of just transition pathways. Importantly, it notes carbon tax as a vital component of our mitigation strategy to lower greenhouse gas emissions,” President Ramaphosa said.

By internalising the cost of carbon emissions, the President said the carbon tax incentivises companies to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in cleaner technologies, and also generates revenue for climate initiatives.

The President said these funds can be reinvested in renewable energy projects, energy efficiency programmes and social support mechanisms.

Government has launched a number of other initiatives to meet the country’s emissions targets, and these include the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, which has been successful, attracting over R209 billion in investment and adding much-needed capacity to the electricity grid.

President Ramaphosa said the Integrated Resource Plan, which outlines the country’s energy mix, is in the process of being updated.

The plan sets out a viable energy mix over the medium- and long-term to achieve the decarbonisation objectives.

WATCH | Climate Resilience Symposium

 

Just transition

The President said the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan sets out a quantified investment plan of some $98 billion, noting this will drive huge investments in the electricity grid, green hydrogen, electric vehicles, economic diversification, and skills development, amongst others.

“We continue to explore opportunities to meet our emissions reduction targets in minerals extraction, in green hydrogen production, in new power infrastructure, in electric vehicle manufacturing, and economic infrastructure upgrades.

“It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon economy is just and inclusive and that no worker or community is left behind. The growth of clean tech, renewable energy, battery storage, green hydrogen and minerals for the future low-carbon economy must result in opportunities for affected sectors, employees, and communities,” the President said.

READ | Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan

The President also noted that government is investing in retraining programmes, creating new job opportunities in renewable energy, and supporting small enterprises in affected areas.

The President further underscored a need for substantial investments to build sustainable infrastructure, develop green technologies and support social programmes.

Moreover, he noted the substantial gap between available disaster funds and the cost of disaster response.

“Even as we have taken proactive measures like setting up a Climate Change Response Fund, we need to think seriously about the urgent financial and policy measures needed to address these shocks, and how to strengthen the National Treasury’s disaster financing response,” the President said.

He said the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is already working with the Presidential Climate Commission on recommendations for the Climate Change Response Fund, and an Adaptation and Resilience Investment Plan to accompany it.

The President called on international partners to fulfil their commitments to finance both, noting that mitigation and adaptation financing remains a challenge.

While acknowledging the positive steps taken with the establishment of the Green Climate Fund, including the Loss and Damage Fund, and other global mechanisms, President Ramaphosa emphasised a need for more innovative financing solutions that mobilise private capital and incentivise sustainable practices.

READ | Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries

“The National Treasury’s Climate Finance Strategy is pivotal in this regard, outlining how we can leverage public and private finance to achieve our climate goals. 

“We must not underestimate the importance of our own domestic capital and financial markets to innovatively mobilise and deploy capital towards our just transition,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President announced that the Just Energy Transition Funding Platform will be launched in the next few months.

The funding platform will be an important precursor to a broader Just Transition Financing Mechanism, proposals for which are being developed by the Presidential Climate Commission.

“We call on South African business to invest in the projects needed for a successful just transition in this country. We need to use blended finance to unlock private sector flows,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:47

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Read moreSouth Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050

What South African taxes do Electric Vehicle owners enjoy avoiding over fuel taxes?

Location: MyPR

Not only is the cost of charging an electric vehicle significantly lower than filling up a petrol car, with savings ranging from 80-90%. This is due to the higher energy efficiency of electric motors compared to internal combustion engines. Owners of Electric Vehicles also ‘escape’ the taxes levied on fuel in South Africa – a …

Read moreWhat South African taxes do Electric Vehicle owners enjoy avoiding over fuel taxes?

G-Star presents: Homegrown Denim First denim brand to successfully grow greenhouse cotton.

Location: MyPR

G-Star presents: Homegrown Denim First denim brand to successfully grow greenhouse cotton. Amsterdam, May 29, 2024 – G-Star unveils its latest denim innovation ‘Homegrown Denim’, a pioneering scientific collaboration with Wageningen University & Research, and Dutch Cotton. This experiment, funded by G-Star, explores how greenhouse-grown cotton could help drastically reduce the impact of cotton growing …

Read moreG-Star presents: Homegrown Denim First denim brand to successfully grow greenhouse cotton.

Time to see tyres as an investment

Location: MyPR

Supa Quick is urging motorists to make 2024 the year in which they change the way they see tyres. “Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road” says Werner Wernich, Supa Quick Regional Operations Manager. “Reputable tyre manufacturers have enormous R&D budgets devoted to improving the tyre’s technology, …

Read moreTime to see tyres as an investment

Black business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy

Location: News

Black business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on black business and black industrialists to be part of efforts to rebuild the country’s economy.

President Ramaphosa made the call at the Black Business Council (BBC) gala dinner held at Kempton Park in Johannesburg on Tuesday night.

He warned that without investment there can be no jobs, and without job creation on a large scale “our prospects for achieving full economic transformation are diminished”.

“By strategically investing in the economy we are laying the groundwork for prosperity, connectivity, and opportunity across our nation. Green industrialisation is an area of opportunity for black business,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President said government is prioritising the production of electric vehicles, green hydrogen production, and the processing of critical minerals essential for the battery value chain. 

In February 2024, the President announced a comprehensive set of incentives designed to spur investment in these critical sectors, which will be rolled out over a ten-year period. 

The incentives will stimulate innovation, attract private capital, and accelerate the adoption of green technologies, ensuring a just and equitable transition towards a sustainable future.

By embracing green industrialisation and promoting a just transition, the President said government is not only safeguarding the country’s environment but also fostering economic resilience and creating new opportunities for the workforce. 

The President said as part of government’s commitment to fostering economic inclusion and levelling the playing field, the Competition Commission will continue to embark on market inquiries across the economy.  

“These inquiries are aimed at addressing high levels of economic concentration and encouraging greater participation by small businesses. By identifying barriers to entry and promoting fair competition, we will create opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to our economy.

“These initiatives underscore our dedication to promoting economic empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a more inclusive and equitable economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

He noted that over the past 30 years, South Africa has undergone deep, fundamental, and irreversible change.

Black business has been a valued partner along this journey and he said he has no doubt it will continue to be so for time to come.

He noted that government’s relationship with the Black Business Council has deepened since the sixth administration took office in 2019. “I think I can say with confidence that it is also stronger,” he added.

President Ramaphosa commended the council for responding to the call he made during his inauguration speech five years ago for all South Africans to join government in setting its sights high on a future of growth and economic opportunity. 

“You have rallied both with us and around us as government, in what has been a turbulent period marked by a global pandemic, civil unrest, natural disaster, crises in energy and logistics, and slow economic growth that has been further exacerbated by all the aforementioned challenges. 

“We also know that as the sixth administration took office, we were also confronted with the task of rebuilding capacity in key state institutions practically from the ground up, following the devastating years of state capture,” the President said. 

What has been immensely encouraging is that the door of engagement has always remained open, he said, adding that engagements have been productive and have always taken place in a positive spirit of partnership.

“As we look to the future with optimism, let us continue to work together on this journey towards a fully transformed economy where no one is left behind,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:46

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Read moreBlack business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy

The quest for certainty in e-commerce delivery

Location: MyPR

In today’s rapidly evolving world of e-commerce, one thing is abundantly clear: the receiver holds the reins. It’s the receiver—the customer—who ultimately dictates the trends and expectations that shape the industry. And, as someone deeply entrenched in the e-commerce landscape, I can confidently say that what the receiver wants, above all, is certainty when it …

Read moreThe quest for certainty in e-commerce delivery

Government to work with transport sector for economic growth

Location: News

Government to work with transport sector for economic growth

Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga has reaffirmed government's commitment to fostering a transport ecosystem that is agile, responsive and adaptable to the evolving needs of society and the changing global landscape.

“Transport plays a critical role in shaping the societal, economic, and spatial landscape of our nation. With mandates spanning across rail, road, civil aviation, maritime, public transport, and macro planning, the Department of Transport and its entities hold a significant responsibility in driving forward the country's developmental agenda,” Chikunga said on Tuesday.

She made these remarks during a strategic workshop for the transport sector, which served as a platform for strategic conversations and dialogue, fostering a shared understanding of mandates and a unified vision for the transport portfolio.

“From roads and highways to railways, airports, and seaports, a well-established transportation network not only facilitates the movement of goods and people but also acts as a catalyst for economic development.

“It is imperative that policymakers, businesses, and communities work together to prioritise sustainable infrastructure development that meets the needs of present and future generations. Only through concerted efforts can we build a transport infrastructure that drives inclusive and sustainable development for all,” Chikunga said.

The Minister outlined key priorities essential for driving the transport sector forward.

These priorities, spanning various facets of transport infrastructure and operations, underscore the government's commitment to enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility within the transport ecosystem.

She reiterated the importance of revitalising rail infrastructure and operations.

Key priorities in this domain include the recovery of rail major corridors, signalling system, implementation of the station modernisation programme, and expansion and modernisation of rolling stock.

“The recently launched National Rail Policy underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts aimed at fostering transformation and ensuring fair competition within the sector,” she said.

The Minister stressed the importance of finalising key policies such as the Roads Funding Policy and the Public Transport Subsidy Policy.

This being the last strategic workshop for the transport sector in the sixth administration,  the workshop undertook a robust review of the mandate analysis of the Department and its entities,  review of its achievements in the current term,  analysis of the legislative frameworks and the need for its modernisation as well as building of institutional capacity, governance and leadership.

The Minister underscored the importance of transitioning towards greener transport solutions.

Priorities in this domain include developing the Transport Just Transition plan, raising public awareness on the Electric Vehicles (EV) Regulatory Framework, and collaborating with the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) on implementing the Green Transport Strategy. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:11

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Read moreGovernment to work with transport sector for economic growth

South African projects seize opportunity to tackle climate crisis and create jobs

Location: News

British High Commission Pretoria
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The businesses were chosen from 173 applications following a rigorous selection process. The chosen projects come from the energy, transportation, agriculture, forestry and other land uses, circular economy and water sectors.

The businesses concerned will receive tailored one-to-one and group support from financial, technical and gender equality and social inclusion experts to help increase their chances of securing finance from South African and international investors. For the first time, two separate cohorts have been created to trial providing capacity building to promising early-stage projects.

So far, almost a third of projects from the first two phases of CFA South Africa have found investment since participating in the programme.

British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:

"South Africa has a huge number of companies and organisations with innovative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Support provided to these projects will help them secure investment, deliver green growth and jobs and contribute to South Africa meeting its climate commitments."

The 10 core cohort projects will undertake intensive capacity building before pitching to investors at an event in July, which early-stage projects will also be invited to attend.

The 5 projects selected in the early-stage pilot will have the opportunity to attend elements of the core capacity building training and will be encouraged to share their experiences with members of the core cohort, who may act as mentors.

CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI), Shameela Soobramoney said:

"NBI believes that identifying and supporting innovative, low carbon companies across key green economy sectors is not just a strategic initiative, but a moral imperative. These companies represent the vanguard of progress, offering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our country and the globe."

"Initiatives like CFA illustrate how targeted support, collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come. If we don't create the future we want, the one we get will be worth infinitely less."

CEO of GreenCape (GC), Michael Mulachy said:

"Food systems, rare earth metal beneficiation, storage, e-mobility, waste and sanitation are all featured in this year's CFA finalists. This incredible cohort have solutions to some of the most pressing green economy challenges globally."

"Each finalist has found its niche in South Africa and has the potential to scale up rapidly – creating much needed jobs and investment in South Africa's green economy. The CFA programme has been an incredibly effective launch pad for these innovative green companies and GreenCape is eager to see the impact of this cohort."

The 10 core cohort projects are:

  • Charge - catalysing the decarbonisation of the transport sector by installing 120 off-grid, green-powered, ultra-fast charging stations for passenger and light delivery vehicles. Located approximately 150 km apart, this first phase of installations covers South Africa's major highways and regional routes (18,200 km).
  • Creslow Energy Solutions - renewable battery manufacturer based in Mpumalanga. The energy storage solution is aimed at leisure, commercial and industrial markets (battery packs are suitable for small to medium factories and shopping malls), as well with specialised solutions provided for the mining sector.
  • Cultura Fresh - expanding the existing successful hydroponic vegetable business to meet persistent excess demand. Cultura Fresh is currently the largest supplier of leafy greens in Western Cape. This expansion will create jobs and boost food security.
  • EWaste Africa - expanding EWaste Africa's existing offer of  storing, collecting, transporting and end-of-life management of e-waste by diversifying into reuse, refurbishment and repair of e-waste (electrical, electronic, solar and lighting equipment waste) and increasing recycling facilities for hazardous e-waste.
  • Loowatt - providing high-quality ‘Kalula' home toilets to customers in urban neighbourhoods that lack adequate sanitation access.
  • Manganese Metal Company - constructing a 5,000 ton per annum manganese sulphate monohydrate (MSM) plant, to be located in Mbombela. MSM is a key ingredient in electric vehicles batteries.
  • MycoSure - addressing sustainable food production by developing mycelium-based submerged biomass fermentation technology to produce alternative protein and nutraceutical ingredients at scale.
  • Nambu - turning food ‘waste' into high value insect protein for livestock and pet feed - including dog kibble, liquid based feed additive and a basic ruminant feed - as well as pelletised frass (fertiliser),
  • SOCO CAPITAL - a spin off from an Engineering Procurement and Construction company, now an Independent Power Producer delivering comprehensive solutions, including fully funded solar PV (Power Purchase Agreement) and battery offerings available for rental.
  • Valternative Energy - bringing next-generation clean energy solutions to the e-mobility sector in South Africa with electric bikes, smart batteries and swap stations.

The 5 early-stage cohort projects are:

  • Aquagel - Regenr8 is addressing climate change through food security. Regenr8 does this by offering organic bio-stimulant that disrupts the chemical fertiliser industry and stores CO2 in the soil for hundreds of years.
  • Breev - Breev has a vision of an EV charger in every town in Africa and currently aims to expand EV charging along 980,000 km of roads in South Africa and Kenya, doubling mobility options and reducing environmental impact.
  • React - enhancing access to recycling services and ethical standards by setting up decentralised micro material recovery facilities in low-income areas, integrating informal waste reclaimers as operators, and providing them with access to recyclables and eco-friendly transportation.
  • Smartfill - connected smart dispensers enabling consumers to accurately fill any container with the quantity of dry food they need, eliminating plastic packaging.
  • Solarfi - is set to connect 5 million individuals by distributing more than 500,000 innovative lantern-routers, delivering both internet and lighting to off-grid communities and driving progress through sustainable technology.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.

Read moreSouth African projects seize opportunity to tackle climate crisis and create jobs

SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities

Location: News

SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities

President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is great potential to unlock economic opportunities through investment-led trade initiatives aimed at increasing the trade of value-added products between South Africa and Ghana.

“We need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job creating agricultural goods, and advanced manufactured and value-added products,” President Ramaphosa said.

Addressing the SA-Ghana Business Forum held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Ghana share a long and rich history defined by the struggle for freedom.

“This history provides a firm foundation to forge closer economic ties that can spur growth and development in both countries,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa is pleased to host the Business Forum to explore business opportunities that enhance bilateral economic relations.

Earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, reaffirmed the importance of nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.

The two Heads of State emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity, which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.

President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.

Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by a ministerial meeting on Monday,11 March. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 8 March.

At the Business Forum, President Ramaphosa said Africa has been at the lower-end of global value chains.

"We have abundant natural resources, but limited productive capability to process them for higher value capture.

“However, the need for a global transition to a low-carbon future offers the continent new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries.

“Most of the minerals critical for the manufacturing of clean energy technologies, such as battery storage and electric vehicles, are held in Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa said there is a need to improve manufacturing capacity and scale up production and export through the building of domestic and regional linkages and value chains.

READ | SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment

“It is important to explore practical cooperation between key players in industry to foster effective and mutually beneficial collaboration between our countries to promote green industrialisation.

“This will help to build on the strong trade and investment links between our economies. South Africa is already the largest purchaser of Ghanaian exports in Africa, and the third largest importer of Ghana’s products globally,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job-creating agricultural goods, advanced manufactured and value-added products.

“The importance of Ghana to South Africa as an anchor partner country within West Africa is affirmed by the many South African trade missions to explore business opportunities in the form of investment-led trade,” he said.

The relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana has grown exponentially over the years.

Cooperation between the two countries has been elevated from a Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) that is held at a Ministerial level to a Bi-National Commission, presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.

The Business Forum brought together companies and entrepreneurs from South Africa and Ghana with the aim of deepening trade and mutual investment and leveraging the opportunities created within the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Expanded trade and investment will stimulate growth and job creation in both countries and facilitate closer people-to-people interaction between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:41

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Read moreSA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities

Patel completes working visit to China

Location: News

Patel completes working visit to China

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel and a high-level delegation have completed a four-day working visit to Shanghai, Nanjing and Beijing to meet with government officials, investors and a number of Chinese electric vehicles and battery manufacturers.

Patel was hosted by his Chinese counterpart, Wang Wentao, the Chinese Minister of Commerce, at a bilateral meeting and working dinner during the visit.

The discussion reviewed trade relations and considered steps taken to implement agreements signed during President Xi Jinping’s State Visit in August 2023. New opportunities were also identified to strengthen economic ties. The leaders also discussed a possible Memorandum of Understanding on the automotive industry.

During his visit, Patel held bilateral meetings with eight Chinese companies, met six South African companies operating in China and undertook two factory site visits.

The SA delegation met with six potential Chinese investors in the electric vehicle value chain. Four are vehicle manufacturers, namely the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC), BYD Auto Manufacturers (the world’s largest electric vehicle producer), Foton Group and Beijing Automotive Industrial Group (BAIC).

The meetings were held with two battery producers: CATL - the world’s largest battery producer, and Gotion Hi-Tech International, who have a partnership with Volkswagen.

“The investors we met were very interested in the market particularly with commencement of trade by South Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA).

“I found them knowledgeable about local market conditions and keen to explore investment partnerships. This builds on positive sentiment we found in September last year in New York among American investors too,” Patel said.

China is the world’s leading producer of electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries. The visit provided Patel with an opportunity to present the South African automotive value proposition and government policy support to companies looking to invest in the South African automotive industry, particularly in EV manufacturing.

The SA automotive industry is supported by stable long-term policies, such as the South African Automotive Master Plan (SAAM) 2035 and a government support package for capital investment, and vehicle and component production.

The South African government released the Electric Vehicle White Paper in December last year. The paper outlines the country’s approach to supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicle production for the export and domestic market.

As part of the support for the transition, government has improved the automotive industry incentive package for electric vehicle production in South Africa. This includes increased investment support through a recently-announced tax measure.

The support from government ensures South Africa can compete in attracting vital investment into the industry that will facilitate the transition of this well-established sector to new energy vehicles. Access to export markets makes South Africa a more attractive investment destination.

Minister Patel also met investors in the steel and energy sectors and discussed their plans for the SA market.

The Minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the dtic.

China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade estimated at $34 billion (R556 billion) in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 09:08

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Read morePatel completes working visit to China

Government raises US$3.3 billion to support climate change initiatives

Location: News

Government raises US$3.3 billion to support climate change initiatives

Government has raised US$3.3 billion so far from Multilateral Development Banks and International Finance Institutions to support climate change, energy, and just transition objectives. 

Delivering the 2024 National Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said National Treasury plays a crucial role in mobilising resources, designing incentives, and influencing policy to mainstream climate change. 

“As climate-related disasters intensify, a multi-layered risk-based approach is being developed to manage the associated fiscal risks.  This considers various funding instruments from grants to contingency funds, including the Climate Change Response Fund, depending on the incidence and intensity of the disaster event. 

“The National Treasury is reviewing disaster response grants to improve efficiency and create incentives for disaster planning, preparedness and risk reduction. It is also developing a climate-budget tagging framework to influence policy, planning, and budget decisions, by tracking climate-related expenditures in public budgets,” the Minister said on Wednesday in Parliament.

He said the support of concessional funding providers, such as Multilateral Development Banks, is going a long way to support the country’s climate adaptation, mitigation, energy transition, and sustainability initiatives. 

“Crowding-in the private sector is necessary to managing the climate disaster funds. We are actively participating in climate negotiations, aligning with the government's advocacy for reforming multilateral finance institutions. 

“We are also working with eight municipalities to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate and weather-related events, by providing technical assistance for climate-responsive capital projects,” the Minister said.

According to the 2024 National Treasury Budget Review, the department is finalising a disaster risk financing strategy, centred on innovative financing and risk transfer to effectively mitigate climate impacts.

The strategy will boost state capacity to fund disaster recovery efforts and expand insurance mechanisms to protect against the financial strain of natural disasters.

“Recent years have seen a significant increase in extreme weather events and economic losses amid mounting concern over the effects of climate change. Between 1980 and 2021, 86 notable weather-related disasters have been recorded, affecting more than 22 million people and causing economic losses of about R113 billion.

“The 2017 Knysna wildfires, Cape Town (2015–2018) and Eastern Cape (2015–2020) droughts and KwaZulu-Natal floods in 2022 have heavily affected agriculture and tourism, with negative implications for government spending and revenue.

“These events exacerbate economic inequality, particularly in poor communities that are highly exposed to droughts, floods and wildfires and their consequences,” the document said.

Government incentivises electric vehicles producers

In an effort to encourage the production of electric vehicles in South Africa, government will introduce an investment allowance for new investments, beginning 1 March 2026. 

This will allow producers to claim 150% of qualifying investment spending on electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles in the first year. 

“The incentive will be implemented in addition to the existing support under the Automotive Production Development Programme. Government has also reprioritised R964 million over the medium term to support the transition to electric vehicles,” the Minister said.

The Electric Vehicles White Paper outlines government’s strategy to transition towards a broader new energy vehicle production and consumption in South Africa, starting with electric vehicles. 

It aims to transition the automotive industry from primarily producing internal combustion engine vehicles to a dual platform that includes electric vehicles, by 2035. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 02/21/2024 - 14:14

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Building Capacity for Africa’s Renewables Sector

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African Energy Chamber
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By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org)

Consider this paradox: Nigeria has achieved the largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, but 45%, or about 85 million, of its residents still live without electricity. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, that figure looms to 600 million.

I believe renewable energy is part of the solution to this dilemma — both in Nigeria and throughout the sub-continent. But there are several hurdles to be cleared before wind, solar, hydrogen, and other clean energy sources can provide the same economic benefits that natural gas — the other part of the solution — already offers. One of those hurdles will be preparing domestic workforces for employment and leadership in the growing renewable energy sector.

We are seeing movement in that direction. In Nigeria, for example, global renewables-promoting nonprofit, RMI, is providing technical training in partnership with four Nigerian energy distribution companies, two developers, and vocational training schools such as RMI's Energy Transition Academy and the Lagos Energy Academy. Aimed at producing leaders and energy entrepreneurs, the Nigerian Cohort of RMI's Global Fellowship Program, started in 2022, uses online learning and in-person experiences to develop leaders who know how to produce and employ solar PV, battery storage, and microgrid technologies.

We will need many, many more efforts like this for Africans to fully reap the economic benefits of our energy transition. For that to happen, more investment capital must be attracted for curriculum development, to support training efforts, and to help fledgling renewable businesses find their footing.

This is a critical topic, one that deserves attention at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) that is now underway and beyond.

Africa Must be Proactive in Building Capacity

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has predicted that 4 million new renewable energy jobs will be needed in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030 to meet 2050 net-zero goals. But it is not a given that those positions will be filled by Africans, especially if we rush forward with our transition from fossil fuels to renewables, as many wealthy nations and environmental groups are demanding.

Currently, there is a significant shortage of qualified human resources — people educated and prepared to take advantage of the opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship that renewables offer.

What's more, only 76,000 renewable energy jobs have been created in Africa, less than 1% of 10.3 million globally. That means the vast majority of Africans have absolutely no experience, or hands-on opportunities to develop skills, in green energy.

Education is Key

Turning this situation around begins with investing in and emphasizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education at all levels in Africa.

African governments will need to do their part by driving improvements in all-around education in science and technology and green energy vocational programs.

Government policies should also provide advantages to attract private-sector visionaries and incentivize public-private collaborations that foster the education and training of Africans for career-level, leadership positions in the renewables sectors.

Africa's renewable energy sector is growing. That reality is a mixed blessing because of the shortage of homegrown, trained professionals able to create, construct, and run renewable projects. We do, however, have an advantage — our large, youthful demographic.

Many of our young people need jobs, and many more soon will. If we can put together partnerships among governments, learning facilities, and private industry, we can train our youth for careers in renewable technologies that offer them brighter futures.

We should be building on the examples of the promising educational opportunities that are available for African students who want to build a career in renewable energy. Here is a sampling:

  • A German-African partnership, the Atlas of Green Hydrogen Generation Potentials in Africa, states, “Green hydrogen offers a real chance to launch a development in Africa which is driven by African countries themselves.” As part of the effort, a master's degree program in green hydrogen technologies was begun in 2021. Students from all 15 countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) may apply. Universities in Cote d'Ivoire, Niger, Senegal, and Togo host the program.
  • Another German government initiative, Green People's Energy for Africa, “supports vocation training institutes and technical universities to offer new and improved practical training modules for professionals” as well as other methods for skills development in renewable energy technology.
  • An EU-US cooperative agreement supports sub-Saharan Africa's just transition to green energy. Working at the regional and national levels, efforts include empowerment of women in the sector, knowledge sharing to provide technical assistance, and the leveraging of investments by the private sector.

Another Opportunity: Green Hydrogen

Surveying the renewables horizon, there is general agreement that decarbonizing all the world's economic sectors won't be possible without the use of green hydrogen — for feedstock, fuel cell technology, and electric vehicles.

The demand for this clean and adaptable fuel, produced with renewable energy sources, compounds the need for a trained renewable energy workforce.

Green hydrogen presents both a large opportunity and a large challenge for African nations. With its massive area and plentiful solar and wind resources, Africa could potentially be producing about 10% of the world's green hydrogen by 2030. But there is an “if” attached to that projection.

If African states strategize and invest now to develop a green hydrogen workforce, they can be ready for the coming wave of green hydrogen development and utilization. Hydrogen learning opportunities should be made available from the high school level upward as part of comprehensive skills plans for developing a prepared workforce.

With forethought and smart implementation, young Africans can be readied to lead the way in bringing the benefits of green hydrogen to their communities. In the process, job shortages can be mitigated as these young employees put their skills to work in the production, storage, and transportation of green hydrogen.

More African countries should be taking measures to ensure their people and businesses capitalize on green energy opportunities. And these must not stop with education and skills training; we also need local content measures to help ensure our residents benefit from renewable power projects and facilities operations.

Ensuring Strong Local Content Policies

Just as local content rules continue to function as vital safeguards in African oil and gas operations, they will be tremendously important in the renewables sector, both for individuals and for businesses. As I've stated in the past, every nation needs to create a framework that empowers indigenous companies to fully capitalize on renewable energy opportunities.

There are times when power needs may justify temporary modifications to these policies. As an example, South Africa's National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), early this year, relaxed its local content rules for the construction of solar modules. Easing local employment requirements from 100% to 30% for local component production is meant to facilitate quicker deployment of solar projects, and hopefully, help alleviate the country's crippling power outages.

Power supply levels and other factors show the need to perform a balancing act when writing local content rules. Those other factors include the supply of current local skilled workers and infrastructure. We don't want to discourage developers, so we need appropriate, tailored local content regulations.

One reasonable approach is the one taken by Kenya, where guidelines requiring contractors to formulate a local content plan have been drafted. These plans must include training, succession, jobs, technology transfer, R&D, legal, financial, and insurance issues. This approach places the “ball” in the “court” of each project's contractor, allowing for their input in local content formulation.

A similar policy has been enacted in Nigeria. The local content policy is part of the government's Electricity Act 2023. It requires the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to provide for local content participation involving employment, production, and assembly of components for solar PV, deep cycle batteries, and the electro-mechanical parts of SHP technology, wind boilers, and some turbines.

The act goes further, requiring contractors, sub-contractors, and licensees involved in renewable energy to include local content in all their related activities.

If widely enacted across the continent, similar local content rules can work hand-in-hand with training efforts to ensure Africans benefit from renewable energy development — through employment and the growth of their economies.

We are seeing promising movement in the effort to address Africa's skills gap, but we need many more programs, and we need them now. African countries and energy industry stakeholders should be doing everything possible to support these efforts, so Africans don't miss out on renewable energy industry opportunities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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South Africa: African Development Bank approves $1 billion guarantee from the United Kingdom to support SA’s Just Energy Transition

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African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $1 billion guarantee program in collaboration with the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), which will allow the Bank to increase its lending capacity in support of South Africa's Just Energy Transition (JET).

Developed in close collaboration with the government of the Republic of South Africa, the program will support projects aligned with South Africa's JET investment plan, such as transmission and grid-balancing storage, renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, rehabilitation of municipal electricity delivery, green hydrogen, new electric vehicles. It also includes projects addressing the “just” dimension, notably in the Province of Mpumalanga, in the north-eastern part of the country, bordering Swaziland and Mozambique.

The approval, coming during COP28, where ramping-up climate finance is an issue, is timely and topical. African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, Dr. Kevin Kariuki observed: “this is another innovative operation that reaffirms AfDB's leadership in crafting financial solutions to increase access to climate finance for Africa's low carbon development and net zero ambitions.”

Melinda Bohannon, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Director General of Humanitarian and Development stated,” FCDO remains committed to the Just Energy Transition Partnership with South Africa, which supports green growth and jobs, improves energy security, and helps South Africa achieve its carbon reduction ambitions as set out in its National Determined Contribution.  This guarantee will unlock funds for projects within the remit of South Africa's recently released Just Energy Transition implementation plan. This comes alongside the recently significantly increased grant offer from the International Partners Group, and we are using some of those grants to help develop an investment project pipeline”.

Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, Deputy-Director General for Asset and Liability Management in South Africa's National Treasury commented, “We are pleased with the approval by the AfDB Board of the guarantee framework that will increase South Africa's access to funding from the Bank by $1 billion. This marks an important partnership between our government, the UK and AfDB to enhance our ability to implement South Africa's just energy transition in a way that is just and socially responsible. We look forward to working closely with the AfDB on the preparation and financing of a pipeline of programs and projects under our just transition priority areas, including those identified in the JET Implementation Plan. As a development bank with vast experience in just transition in the continent, the AfDB is an ideal partner for us on this important initiative”.

Max Ndiaye, Director of Syndications, Co-financing and Client Solutions, noted previous collaboration between the Bank and FCDO, and applauded this transaction as further demonstration of the Bank's continued efforts to heed the G20 recommendations on capital adequacy that call for increased collaboration and additional shareholder support for the balance sheet optimization of MDBs.

“By enabling the Bank to increase its lending capacity, this landmark guarantee agreement will greatly support South Africa's Just Energy Transition,” noted African Development Bank Director General for Southern Africa, Leila Mokaddem. “The African Development Bank remains committed to accompanying South Africa on this important journey," she added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Link to Images: https://apo-opa.co/4afJ94I

Contact:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
email: media@afdb.org

Technical contact:
Max Ndiaye
Director of Syndications
Co-financing and Client Solutions

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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White Paper on electric vehicles released

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White Paper on electric vehicles released

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has released a White Paper that outlines a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) roadmap for South Africa and the structure of a suite of policy interventions tailored to the automotive industry.

“It is a product of constructive engagement with stakeholders, including within government, industry and labour, to chart a viable and sustainable transition path for the industry,” Patel said on Monday.

At a media briefing in Pretoria, Patel said the primary goal of the White Paper is to set a course to transition the auto industry from primarily producing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to a dual platform that includes EVs in the production and consumption mix, alongside ICE vehicles in South Africa by 2035.

“This vision is aligned with the foundational objectives outlined in the SAAM, a strategic framework implemented from 2021 to shape the nation's automotive industry,” Patel said.

Patel explained that it also aligns with changing demand in export markets and South Africa’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gases.

“The compelling reasons behind this transition are numerous. Foremost is the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Additionally, we recognise the pivotal role the automotive industry plays in South Africa's economy, as a major employer and a driver of economic growth.

“This White Paper presents a comprehensive, coordinated approach to the transition to minimise the perils of an uncoordinated transition. It draws on extensive international and domestic research and consultations, spanning from 2019 to 2023.

“It is grounded in the principle that decarbonisation should not lead to de-industrialisation but rather be leveraged for growth, deepening the automotive value chain, fostering growth of the local industry, and ensuring the transition aligns with economic priorities,” Patel said.

Patel said successful management of the transition is a pro-growth and pro-investment strategy.

“The success of the transition requires all stakeholders to continue to work collaboratively to navigate this challenging transition and transform it into an opportunity for growth, sustainability, and economic vitality,” the Minister said.

Patel said South Africa could see the first electric vehicles as early as by 2026.

Last week, Cabinet approved the White Paper on EVs to ensure that South Africa becomes part of the global shift from internal combustion engines to new technology vehicles.

Addressing the Post Cabinet briefing last Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the policy supports investments in the development and expansion of new and existing manufacturing plants to support the production of electric vehicles in the country.

“South Africa’s automobile industry plays a critical role in economic growth and supports thousands of jobs, and the country is also endowed with mineral resources that position it to become a key and strategic player in EV value chains,” the Minister said.

The White Paper is the culmination of substantial research and engagement over the last number of years and follows the publication of a Green Paper in 2021, extensive industry consultation (assemblers, component makers and organised labour), consideration of public comments, all of which helped to shape the policy actions to be taken.

Patel also highlighted the Green Paper on the advancement of new electric vehicles and battery-electric vehicles in South Africa. The draft Green Paper seeks to develop a framework upon which a comprehensive and long-term automotive industry transformation policy on new EVs can be developed. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 14:45

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MAHLE sets the global standard for wireless charging

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• SAE International chooses the MAHLE positioning system as the global standard solution for the wireless charging of electric vehicles • Key technology closes the crucial gap in standardization • Cross-manufacturer solution enables a comprehensive and rapid market launch • MAHLE CEO Arnd Franz: “A strong impetus for e-mobility.” Inductive – i.e. wireless – charging …

Read moreMAHLE sets the global standard for wireless charging

BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel: A Powerful 350W Solar Solution

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In a world that’s increasingly embracing renewable energy sources, solar panels have become a beacon of hope for those looking to harness the power of the sun. Among the vast array of solar panels available in the market, the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel stands out as a compelling choice, boasting impressive specifications and design features …

Read moreBLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel: A Powerful 350W Solar Solution

Patel welcomes Ford’s further investment in SA

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Patel welcomes Ford’s further investment in SA

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel has welcomed the announcement made by Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) regarding the expansion of its production to include plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the Ford Ranger programme.

The move aligns with the global efforts to decarbonize energy-intensive industries and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"We commend Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa for their commitment to embracing cleaner energy solutions. This initiative not only supports our national efforts to combat climate change but also positions South Africa as a key player in the global shift towards sustainable transportation," the Minister said in a statement on Thursday.

Globally, the automotive sector has undergone significant changes, necessitating the adoption of cleaner technologies.

FMCSA's decision to invest an additional R5.2 billion (US$272 million) at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, Gauteng, for PHEV production demonstrates dedication to building world-class vehicles while contributing to a greener future.

The department said the implementation of relevant policies and legislation supporting the production and uptake of new electric vehicles (NEVs) is vital in encouraging the transition from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) to clean and energy-efficient alternatives.

FMCSA's commitment to producing PHEVs aligns with the Ford+ global strategy, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey towards sustainable mobility.

Production of the Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid electric vehicles is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2024, and the vehicles manufactured at the Silverton Assembly Plant will be exported to over 100 markets globally, including the United Kingdom (UK) and European Union (EU) member states.

"We look forward to collaborating closely with Ford to establish the PHEV facility at the Silverton plant in Gauteng. This partnership will contribute to the future sustainability of the automotive sector and create a cleaner, greener environment for all," Patel said.

The sector is expected to receive a further boost once the Electric Vehicle White Paper is finalised by South Africa, which is expected during the current financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:28

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Patel supports call for reauthorisation of AGOA

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Patel supports call for reauthorisation of AGOA

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, has thrown his weight behind the reauthorisation of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as swiftly as possible and with refinements that do not require lengthy discussions.

Patel was delivering closing remarks at the three-day 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum held at Nasrec in Johannesburg.

“One idea that's come up from the discussions is whether we should consider, if needed, a two-stage programme. But the first stage firmly focused on reauthorisation as rapidly as possible, maybe with a modest package of refinements that does not require lengthy discussions. 

“The second stage with further and perhaps deeper improvements that require more time and further study, and that can be done fairly shortly thereafter. We are particularly keen to get the reauthorisation in the earliest part of 2024, so this will be very helpful.

“These are ideas that we want our friends in the United States to think through and consider. We are also reflecting a little bit on these weighing up the pros and cons,” the Minister said.

The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act is a unilateral trade preference scheme that provides qualifying sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free, quota-free access into the United States market. AGOA remains the cornerstone of the USA’s commercial relations with sub-Saharan Africa.

The Minister said that discussions at the forum also looked at a graduation system once countries reach a particular level of advancement, adding that they can be even considered a "constructive conversation about the matrix of that level of advancement".

Patel also emphasised that there are policy areas that need to be relooked, adding that polishing existing policies would make room for more African products to make it to the international market.

“Those colleagues who’ve been enjoying our fruits, SA citrus fruit from the region, which can be available in larger quantities, we can resolve those things. Matters we constructively engage in, for example relating to steel and aluminium, these are practical solutions we believe can unlock the value of trade. In different parts of the continent, in West Africa, there are constraints in accessing the American market. In East Africa, there are different products we need to refine.”

Patel highlighted that the discussions also looked at the idea of small businesses to small business partnership between the African continent and the United States.

“We looked at the product scope. Is there appetite to increase the number of products covered by AGOA? By way of illustration, we shared with Congressional representatives, an example of 10 products where Africa has capacity, and where Africa has fantastic products, some of which you've tasted in the last few days,” he told delegates.

“We recognise we need to balance the level of our ambition on extending the product list against the concerns about the time that may be required to reach consensus in Congress on these factors. While we would obviously prefer as much as possible, we want to avoid such a broad review that we delay reauthorisation,” he said. 

Mineral beneficiation

Mineral beneficiation on the African continent was also under the spotlight.

“We said we don't want to be the exporter of rocks. We want to be the exporter of consumer and capital goods… and the producers of electric vehicles. And it raises the question of a moment of a grand bargain between Africa and its friends elsewhere in the world, where there's a partnership around critical minerals, but also with processing of critical minerals on the African continent,” he said. 

The Minister believes that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a game changer.

He explained that AGOA on its own gave the continent significant access on a range of products to the world's single biggest national consumer market. 

“What the AFCFTA will add to that is that the combined weight of access to African markets and access to the US market will give us the scale to draw investment, and scale is what investors look at. They want to be able to see that the size of the market justifies the investment.  

“We also said that AFCFTA is helping to foster value chains. It is a critical driver to help industrialise and so more and more countries will now begin to have these value chains, so those value chains will then enable better utilisation of AGOA,” he said.

Impact

The United States of America Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, also addressed the closing ceremony and emphasised that AGOA remains the cornerstone of the U.S. economic partnership with Africa.

“Let us not forget the real impact AGOA has had on real lives, real people: the woman entrepreneur seeking to expand her macadamia nut processing business; the small business owner making apparel and handicrafts, and the countless students and youth, waiting to make their mark on this ever-changing continent,” she said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the opening of the forum on Friday. In his address, the  President said an extension of AGOA for a longer period of time could act as an instrument to entice investors to pour more resources into the African continent.

“We would like you to look at the extension or renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period for it to act as an incentive for investors to build new factories on the African continent,” said the President.

The purpose of the forum is to discuss ways to expand trade and investment relations between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa, and the implementation of AGOA, including encouraging joint ventures between small and large businesses. - SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Sat, 11/04/2023 - 19:43

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