The Coega Development Corporation (CDC), the infrastructure implementing agent of choice in South Africa announced that they are on time to complete the multi-billion-rand project which is a significant milestone for the organisation and the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ). “Just over a year in, and amid a global pandemic, Phase 1 construction at TASEZ is close to completion. Top structure construction of most suppliers is well advanced, and some are already operational,” says Chuma Mbande, CDC’s Executive Manager of Business Development for External Infrastructure Programmes.
In terms of SMME package values for bulk earthworks, Coega has achieved R174 million (target: R193 million). Regarding top structures, Coega has achieved R747 million (target: R963 million).
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone is Africa’s first automotive city. Located in the Gauteng Province, the green City of Tshwane, TASEZ is a preferred investment destination for the automotive industry on the African Continent. Its proximity to an established automotive industry allows for increased economies of scale and scope, thereby lowering the cost of doing business. The SEZ offers world-class customised solutions, incentives, support services and systems for manufacturers seeking excellence, productive and progressive location.
TASEZ is also a catalyst for employment, transformation and socio-economic development and industry growth. It boasts the most skilled labour in the sector, easy access to a strong consumer base, and connectivity to both suppliers and potential markets whilst promoting export-orientated industries and local integration.
Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister, Fikile Majola has characterised the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) as a turning point in how special economic zones (SEZs) must be owned and operated. He lauded the TASEZ’s quick development speed despite hurdles that emerged during COVID-19 lockdowns over the last year.
In the year-to-date, government, comprising of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the City of Tshwane, and the Gauteng provincial government, has spent R1.85-billion on the TASEZ development, while R1.3-billion has been invested by the private sector. Over 3 000 construction jobs have been created across five factories within the TASEZ since its launch by the President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa in 2019, with more to come as construction is completed and existing operations ramp up. Furthermore, 72 graduate professionals have been placed as interns on the project to-date.
