Opportunities for the taking – but crime and Eskom are key issues

SERIOUS WORK on infrastructure improvements appears to have begun, in the view of Martin Keck, managing director of CFR Freight. OR Tambo modernisation, road works specifically on freeways, and the Gautrain are a few of the positive indicators – but rail services remain one of the biggest challenges, says Keck, along with loadshedding, crime, traffic congestion and the skills shortage. But Gauteng can’t be viewed in isolation. “While in general it is still inviting for entrepreneurs, wider issues such as inflation, rising interest rates and high petrol prices are detrimental to the positive outlook.” There are however opportunities for the taking starting with the 2010 Soccer World Cup. “In addition, as the main economic centre of SA, Gauteng will see the biggest population growth resulting in more retail activities,” he adds. “And if BBBEE is dealt with in the right way, small and medium sized companies have growth potential.” The revival of the Zimbabwean economy and economic growth in SADC also offer positive growth prospects. CFR Freight, which specialises in international cargo consolidation by air and sea, has experienced a shift towards the Far East on imports while the Far East and Europe are the strongest destinations for exports. Keck says the majority of cargo arriving in Durban by sea from Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Hamburg, Antwerp, Tilbury and New York is destined for Gauteng. After customs clearance in Durban it is mainly transported by road. Overall Keck is optimistic about the future but he reiterates: “A lot will depend on the control of crime, the successful hosting of the World Cup, and Eskom’s commitment to overcoming its difficulties.