Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone launched in Pretoria

Source: www.quickpic.co.za

The Tshwane Automotive SEZ is an automotive component supplier industrial park that will play a significant role in bolstering further investment and job creation in the local economy. It will also be instrumental in enabling future expansion opportunities for Ford's local operations.

"The launch of the Tshwane Automotive SEZ is a milestone achievement following five years of engagement between Ford Motor Company and government, specifically the Department of Trade and Industry," says Neale Hill, managing director of Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

"It is an exceptionally proud moment for Ford to have partnered with South African government in the creation and development of the Tshwane Automotive SEZ, as an enabler for economic development for the Gauteng Province, City of Tshwane and the surrounding communities.

Driving growth for the automotive industry

"The public-private partnership between all three spheres of government and the private sector is crucial in order to drive growth in the automotive industry, to create more jobs and to boost the economy. The government's new region-based model for special economic zones is an important new tool to attract domestic and international investment, which will help businesses to become more competitive on a global scale," Hill adds.

"This exciting new project testifies to Ford's ongoing commitment to South Africa as one of the country's largest original equipment vehicle manufacturers, as well as that of key supplier companies that are essential cogs in the wheel as we drive towards creating a brighter and more prosperous future. It is only by government, industry and communities working hand-in-hand that we can create these opportunities and fulfil our true potential."

While the Department of Trade and Industry is the key stakeholder, and is responsible for all 10 SEZs in South Africa, the Tshwane Automotive SEZ is a collaboration on a provincial level with the Gauteng Province, the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA) and the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) which has been appointed the operating company for this SEZ. On a local government level, the project has partnered with the City of Tshwane and the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA).

As an extension of the Gauteng Province's greater OR Tambo Special Economic Zone, the Tshwane Automotive SEZ is aimed at driving investment in the City of Tshwane, supporting the economic development of surrounding communities and, ultimately, becoming a world-class automotive manufacturing hub.