SEZ Board Tasked with Driving R31.7bn Investment Momentum

Godlimpi emphasised that the board is not merely an oversight body but a critical strategic instrument in advancing South Africa’s economic transformation.

The newly appointed Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Advisory Board has been tasked with accelerating South Africa’s industrial growth and investment drive, as government seeks to leverage SEZs to tackle unemployment, slow growth, and structural inequality.

Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi formally welcomed the board during an induction workshop in Johannesburg, expressing confidence in its ability to shape the country’s industrial future.

Strategic Role at the Heart of Industrial Policy

Godlimpi emphasised that the board is not merely an oversight body but a critical strategic instrument in advancing South Africa’s economic transformation.

“Your appointment reflects both your expertise and the critical role the Board plays in shaping South Africa’s industrial future,” he said.

The induction workshop aimed to align members on:

• The Special Economic Zones Act (2014)

• The Spatial Industrial Development Strategy

• National industrial policy frameworks

• Roles and responsibilities of the advisory board

This shared understanding is intended to ensure coherent decision-making and effective governance across the SEZ programme.

Strong Investment Pipeline: R31.7 Billion and Growing

Government data highlights the growing impact of SEZs:

• 12 SEZs designated nationwide

• 9 currently operational

• 224 investors hosted across operational zones

• R31.744 billion in cumulative investment

• 28,821 jobs supported

Over the past eight years, SEZs have recorded net investment growth of R17.234 billion, reflecting steady expansion and investor confidence.

“These numbers demonstrate that the SEZ model is capable of attracting both domestic and international investors,” Godlimpi said.

Driving Jobs and Reshaping Economic Geography

Beyond investment figures, the government views SEZs as a tool to reshape South Africa’s economic landscape, particularly by unlocking growth in underdeveloped regions.

SEZs are designed to:

• Catalyse industrial development in targeted areas

• Strengthen export capacity and global competitiveness

• Promote regional economic diversification

• Support job creation in high-unemployment areas

“The true significance of SEZs lies in their ability to transform economic geography and unlock regional potential,” Godlimpi noted.

Key Responsibilities of the Advisory Board

Established through legislation, the SEZ Advisory Board plays a central role in ensuring programme success. Its responsibilities include:

• Advising the Minister on policy and strategy

• Monitoring implementation of the SEZ framework

• Reviewing applications for new SEZ designations

• Assessing performance of existing zones

• Recommending improvements in investment promotion and operations

This places the board at the intersection of policy, governance, and economic development.

Building on Foundations, Responding to New Challenges

Godlimpi acknowledged the board’s historical role in strengthening governance and guiding the transition from the earlier Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) model to the broader SEZ framework.

“As we begin a new term, we must build on those foundations while responding to evolving economic realities,” he said.

SEZs as a Tool for Economic Renewal

With South Africa facing persistent economic challenges, including high unemployment and slow growth, SEZs are being positioned as a practical mechanism to convert opportunity into outcomes.

“The country has significant strengths—natural resources, strong institutions, and a strategic location in Africa. SEZs allow us to turn these into tangible economic gains,” Godlimpi said.

Looking Ahead

The success of the SEZ programme will depend on effective governance, targeted investment, and alignment with broader industrial policy goals.

With the new advisory board now in place, government is aiming to accelerate industrialisation, boost exports, and drive inclusive economic growth through the next phase of the SEZ programme.