South African Government Confirms Textile Sector’s Role In Economic Recovery
South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Andrew Whitfield, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of South Africa’s clothing and textile sector in driving economic recovery and re-industrialisation. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting and 20-year anniversary celebration of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC) held at UVU Africa in Cape Town, Whitfield outlined the government’s ambitious plans to revitalize the manufacturing sector.
Addressing attendees, Whitfield emphasized that the Government of National Unity is pursuing a bold, coordinated industrial strategy aimed at inclusive growth and job creation. Key targets include the creation of 100,000 new direct manufacturing jobs, a 4.1% increase in manufacturing exports, and an average annual GDP growth of 3% during the current government term.
“The Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster is more than just a regional initiative, it’s a catalyst,” he stated. “Through shared services, coordinated skills training and supplier development, the CCTC is helping to build a stronger, more competitive and sustainable industry.”
Whitfield highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and industry stakeholders in revitalising the sector. He pointed to cluster platforms, factory floors, skills hubs and local ecosystems as critical spaces where practical solutions are being scaled daily.
He also referenced the Retail – Clothing, Textile, Footwear, and Leather (R-CTFL) Master Plan, noting that government is working closely with key partners to address the 223% surge in imports that has contributed to trade imbalances in the sector.
“We must boost our export capacity with a focus on quality, reliability and compliance,” he said. “We need to shift from being exporters of raw materials to global suppliers of premium, finished products. The foundation has been laid, now we must build on it through innovation, collaboration and sustained investment in people and partnerships.”
