KZN looks to Special Economic Zones to reignite industrialisation
Zondi emphasised that delegates were expected to produce practical outcomes rather than merely engage in discussions.
With more than 1 000 local and international delegates gathering in Durban for the Second International Special Economic Zones (SEZs) Infrastructure and Investment Conference, KwaZulu-Natal is banking on the gathering to inject momentum in the drive to bolster its special economic zones (SEZs).
Speaking at a media briefing at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) on Thursday, KZN Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Musa Zondi said the conference was taking place at a pivotal moment for the country’s economy.
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Our country continues to pursue inclusive economic growth, industrial expansion, investment attraction and sustainable job creation.
“Special Economic Zones remain one of government’s most important instruments to realise these objectives by creating globally competitive industrial hubs that attract investment, support manufacturing and increase exports,” he said.
Held under the theme, “Reigniting Industrialisation through World-Class Special Economic Zones”, the two-day conference has brought together government leaders, investors, development finance institutions, business leaders and international partners to explore ways of accelerating industrial development.
Zondi said special economic zones remained one of government’s most important policy instruments to stimulate economic activity.
KZN, Zondi said, is uniquely positioned to lead this drive because of its strategic infrastructure, including the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay, King Shaka International Airport, the Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone and the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone.
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“KZN’s proud to play a leading role in this agenda,” he said, adding that the province serves as “a gateway for trade and investment into South Africa, the African continent and global markets,” he said.
The conference will focus on strengthening SEZs through infrastructure investment, unlocking opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area, expanding regional value chains, financing industrial development and ensuring greater participation by small businesses and local communities.
Zondi emphasised that delegates were expected to produce practical outcomes rather than merely engage in discussions.
Importantly, this conference is not simply about discussion.
“It is about building partnerships, attracting new investment, sharing international best practice and identifying practical interventions that will help South Africa’s Special Economic Zones become globally competitive and deliver tangible economic benefits for our people,” he said.
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The conference will also host the inaugural Special Economic Zones Achievement Awards to recognise outstanding performance by SEZs and investors contributing to industrial development, innovation and job creation.
“We are confident that the outcomes of this conference will contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s industrialisation agenda and create new opportunities for investment, enterprise development and employment,” Zondi said.
