On 17 March 2026, the Trade, Industry and Competition Trade Minister said that localisation must be embraced as a national commitment to rebuild productive capacity, deepen value chains and ensure that economic growth translates into real opportunities for South Africans.
The Minister addressed delegates on the first day of the two-day Buy Local Summit & Expo, hosted by Proudly South African at the Sandton Convention Centre. The annual event aims to promote locally manufactured goods and services, creating jobs, reducing unemployment, and stimulating the economy. The event attracts over 1,600 delegates, among them exhibitors, government representatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and funders.
This year, the event shines a spotlight on the adverse impact of illicit trade, the effects of the turbulent international geopolitical environment, and the far-reaching impact of the exponential growth of offshore e-commerce retailers on local industries.
In her remarks, the Minister said that supporting local is about enabling businesses to grow and promoting both sustainability and reinvestment in South Africa, particularly in our local communities.
“The more we choose to support locally produced goods and services, the stronger our economy becomes. With that growth comes expanded opportunity, new enterprises, and more livelihoods sustained with dignity. We may not always see the immediate impact of cultivating a proudly South African culture. But if we get it right, the benefits will extend far beyond the present moment. The foundations we lay today will shape the opportunities available to future generations. Future generations will feel the impact,” the Minister said.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of distinguishing between supporting local industry, localisation, and protectionism.
“Supporting local production should not mean insulating our economy to the point where our industries lose the incentive to compete globally. South African products should succeed in international markets because they are innovative, reliable and of world-class quality, not simply because they are shielded from competition. The objective of localisation is therefore not to create permanent protection, but to strengthen the conditions under which local firms can compete and grow.”
The Minister reiterated the strategic national commitment to rebuild South Africa’s productive economy, restore industrial capability, and secure inclusive economic growth, noting that if government, business and consumers act with shared purpose, the choice to buy local will become a powerful engine for investment, jobs and long-term prosperity.