South Africa is increasingly using industrial clusters to move beyond exporting raw minerals and toward higher-value manufacturing, clean technology production, and advanced industrialization. Backed by partnerships involving the World Economic Forum, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, and local research institutions, the strategy focuses on creating specialized manufacturing hubs that combine infrastructure, skills, logistics, and clean energy systems. Supporters argue clustered industrial zones can help South Africa attract investment into sectors such as green hydrogen, battery manufacturing, and mineral beneficiation while improving competitiveness in global supply chains. The model is also expected to strengthen regional value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Analysts say success will depend on reliable electricity, transport infrastructure, regulatory certainty, and the country’s ability to transition from commodity exports toward technology-driven industrial ecosystems.
World Economic Forum
