Patel says localisation drive will not derail Africa’s free trade deal

Trade, industry and competition minister Ebrahim Patel has downplayed concerns that the government’s localisation policy will rile trade partners and derail Africa’s free trade agreement.

Patel said the policy was consistent with SA’s international trade obligations and is necessary to build the country’s industrial capacity. He suggested that it would help build partnerships with African producers. The government wants to reduce imports by at least 20% by among other things using its procurement activities to champion locally produced goods...

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Subscribe Sign in

Cancel anytime.

Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

SIGN UP

SIGN IN

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.