Protecting existing jobs in the auto manufacturing industry is critical in light of looming US tariffs and the introduction of stricter vehicle emissions regulations in leading export destinations such as the European Union.
In his letter to the nation on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasises the need for South Africa to diversify its export base, saying the government is committed to working with the sector to expand its continental footprint, build on exports to the SADC region and leverage existing trade relationships.
Ramaphosa’s comments follow his attendance at the launch of BMW’s new X3 Plug-in Hybrid at the company’s Rosslyn plant in Tshwane, which produces hybrid and electric vehicles.
Ramaphosa says govenment’s support of the car manufacturing industry through the Automotive Production and Development Programme will position South Africa as a key global manufacturing base for vehicles of the future.
For its part, he says the auto industry is making investments focusing on technical and artisanal skills, and deepening collaboration between Government departments, vocational colleges and companies to grow a new skills pipeline.
