Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa officiated the launch of a locally manufactured Isuzu D-Max bakkie
The launch not only signified the production of a shiny new vehicle but also potential growth in South Africa’s economy.
Ramaphosa thanked Isuzu for their investment as he believes it will do much to support the country's economy. He added that the fact that the Bakkie is being manufactured in South Africa is more than a matter of pride.
He said, "This investment, together with the approximately R332 billion in investment pledges made at the 4th South Africa Investment Conference held last month, will do much to support South Africa’s economic recovery".
The president added, "For our part, we will continue to drive the critical structural reforms that are necessary to improve the business and investment climate in South Africa. We will continue to support companies, like Isuzu, that are investing in the country’s manufacturing capabilities".
According to South Africa’s automotive business council, manufacturing in the automobile industry contributed 2,8% to the country’s total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020. This is lower than the 4% contributed by the sector in 2019.
In 2019, Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan announced an investment of R1.2 billion in its next-generation vehicle programme in South Africa, as well as an additional R2,8 billion, which will be generated in local content production value through the lifecycle of the programme.
It is estimated that 1 000 direct jobs will be created due to the production of the new Isuzu D-Max bakkie as well as an additional 24 000 indirect jobs.
This, according to the government, will significantly contribute to the upliftment of the community where Isuzu operates.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Ebrahim Patel, and Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane accompanied the President at the launch.
