Why ‘going local’ isn’t all it’s cracked up to be
Devastated by the pandemic, the manufacturing sector is understandably eager to clutch at the straws the government’s localisation drive offers — but it could do harm if pursued in a hasty, prescriptive way
27 May 2021 - 05:00
Localisation — including the requirement that firms substitute 20% of imports with locally made goods within five years — has been adopted as a central cog in the government’s efforts to spur an economic recovery.
The plan, which is being driven by department of trade, industry & competition (DTIC) minister Ebrahim Patel, has been embraced enthusiastically by business on the basis that it could stimulate domestic demand by R200bn a year...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
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.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.