Lack of predictability remains
one of the biggest challenges
facing business in Gauteng.
“The lack of certainty
makes it very difficult for business
to plan for the future,” says Joan
Warburton-McBride, CEO of
the Johannesburg Chamber of
Commerce and Industry.
“Local business has to cope
with volatile labour relations, low
productivity levels, skills shortages,
interrupted electricity supply, global
competition, changes in government
regulations and an exchange rate
that is under stress.”
At the same time there is
increased competition for local and
foreign direct investment – including
from Cape Town, Lagos and Nairobi
– as South Africa and Gauteng are
no longer recognised as the only
or main gateways for investment
into South Africa and Africa,
respectively.
“On the other hand, for certain
industries such as transport and
fast moving consumer goods
(FMCG) Gauteng will always
have an important role to play
because of its geographic location
and comparatively advanced
infrastructure networks,” said
Warburton-McBride. “At the same
time Gauteng remains one of the
most resilient business destinations
– certainly on the African continent
and potentially in the world.”
But, she said, in light of the many
challenges facing business it cannot
be stressed enough that there
needs to be more open engagement
between government and business.
“It is necessary to get all parties
‘singing from the same hymn
sheet’ of continued and sustainable
growth in the province and the
country,” said Warburton-McBride.
“The Chamber has a long history of
providing a forum for interaction
between government and business.
JCCI provides a conduit through
which business can provide input
and through which government
can interact directly with business.
It is encouraging to see that the
province’s leaders have recognised
the opportunity and have
developed long-term visions and
strategic plans.”
INSERT & CAPTION
The lack of certainty makes
it very difficult for business
to plan for the future.
– Joan Warburton-McBride
