Dube TradePort injects R11.5 bn into South African economy

Oct 04, 2018: The Dube TradePort has injected R11.5 billion into the South African economy over the past ten years, creating nearly 100,000 jobs, according to Sihle Zikalala, KwaZulu Natal (KZN) member of the executive council (MEC) for economic development, tourism and environmental affairs.

He noted that cargo volumes through the Dube Cargo Terminal had grown 138 percent since its opening in 2010 – with an increase of 25 percent in 2017 over 2016. This was alongside a corresponding revenue growth of 44 percent.

Zikalala said the special economic zone (SEZ) had attracted large investments and facilitated the importation and exportation of diverse goods.

“South Africa’s export levels are well below those found in many emerging markets, with the bulk concentration on raw materials,” he said. “As a government we want to see more finished products exported and value addition industries created which in turn will stabilise our economy, create jobs and reduce unemployment.”

The KZN Export Week was developed by the Trade and Investment KZN (TIKZN) board’s export and trade development unit in order to promote and assist with growing export opportunities in the province by giving export-ready businesses a platform to enhance their international business.