South Africa's growing potential in advanced manufacturing and clean technology took centre stage on Wednesday as Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams visited Cape Town-based battery technology company Balancell.
The visit forms part of government's efforts to support innovative local businesses, strengthen industrial competitiveness and position South Africa to benefit from emerging global industries.
Balancell designs and manufactures advanced lithium-ion battery systems for the electric mobility, mining and industrial sectors, with its products already being used locally and exported to international markets.
The company is increasingly being recognised as an example of how South African innovation can compete on the global stage while contributing to local economic growth and job creation.
During a tour of the company's facilities, Abrahams met with management to discuss opportunities to expand production, increase local value addition and unlock new export markets.
Discussions also focused on creating a policy and regulatory environment that supports innovative manufacturers operating in highly competitive global industries.
The engagement explored challenges and opportunities affecting Balancell's ability to scale operations, commercialise new technologies and attract investment, while identifying measures that could improve the operating environment for high-growth manufacturing firms.
"Balancell represents the kind of innovation and industrial capability that South Africa needs to support and celebrate," said Abrahams.
"It is encouraging to see a locally developed company producing world-class battery technologies and creating solutions that are finding application both locally and internationally."
The Deputy Minister said engagements with businesses provide government with valuable insights into the realities faced by South African companies seeking to grow and compete globally.
"One of the most valuable aspects of visits such as these is the opportunity to hear directly from businesses about both their successes and the challenges they encounter. This allows government to better understand where support may be required and how we can work with stakeholders to unlock opportunities for growth and investment," she said.
Among the issues discussed were the commercialisation of new technologies, access to testing and certification processes, and ways to ensure innovative South African companies can compete effectively in domestic and international markets.
Abrahams welcomed Balancell's achievements, describing the company as an example of the talent and expertise that exists within South Africa's manufacturing sector.
"What we have seen today demonstrates that South African companies have the talent, expertise and determination to develop advanced technologies that can compete globally. Balancell's achievements are a testament to the innovative potential that exists within our economy," she said.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said it will continue engaging with businesses across the country to identify barriers to investment, support enterprise growth and create conditions that enable South African firms to compete successfully in local and international markets.
The engagements form part of government's broader efforts to accelerate economic growth, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za
