Ms Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams was appointed as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition on 17 November 2025. In this role, she leads the advancement of industrial development, the strengthening of trade relations and the promotion of investment for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Born and raised in Cape Town, Deputy Minister Abrahams holds an undergraduate degree in International Relations and an Honours degree in Political Science from Stellenbosch University. Her academic grounding in governance and global affairs laid the foundation for a career defined by principled leadership and a strong commitment to public service.
The Deputy Minister’s political career began in 2009 when she joined the Democratic Alliance. Two years later, she entered the public sector at the Western Cape Provincial Department of Social Development, working closely with communities facing deep social and economic vulnerability. This experience shaped her people-centred approach to policy and reinforced the importance of evidence-based interventions in improving lives.
Elected as a Member of the National Assembly in 2019, she has served in Parliament since and was re-elected following the 2024 general election. During her tenure, she has built a respected track record in parliamentary oversight, consistently championing accountability, good governance and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Her progression from social development to economic policy reflects a strategic understanding that employment-driven growth is fundamental to social upliftment and national stability. She is guided by a commitment to an inclusive South Africa, where economic policy formulation is responsive to the lived realities of citizens.
