KwaZulu-Natal’s Dube Trade Port injects billions into the South African economy
The Dube Trade Port which incorporates the King Shaka International Airport has in the past ten years invested a whopping R11.5 billion into the South African economy and created nearly 100 000 jobs.
This was revealed by the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Mr Sihle Zikalala as he officiated in the annual KwaZulu-Natal Export Week which got underway at the Durban International Convention Center today.
Mr Zikalala, who is also the Leader of Government Business in KwaZulu-Natal, described the Dube Trade Port as a valuable special economic zone for the entire country having attracted investments and facilitated the importation and exportation of diverse goods.
Cargo volumes through Dube Cargo Terminal have seen considerable growth since its opening in 2010 as it had grown by 138% to date, including an increase in 2017 of 25% compared to 2016 – with a corresponding growth of 44% in revenue, exceeding the target by 28%, Mr Zikalala added.
“King Shaka International Airport has continued to see increased passenger numbers. It has experienced the highest growth with passenger numbers increasing by 7.7% to 5.64 million for the previous financial year and its domestic passenger base has grown by 8.47% in the first three months of 2018,”
Mr Zikalala further stated that the KwaZulu-Natal Export Week, which is held for the seventh year, was developed to recognize, promote and assist with growing export opportunities in the province, thus giving export-ready businesses a platform to enhance their international business development strategies.
Held under the theme: ''Think Global: KZN the African Trade Hub, the event highlights the significance of the export sector to the province’s economy. It could also be described as a celebration of the contribution made by exporters to the economy of this coastal province.''
The MEC stressed that export trade can play a vital role in the creation of jobs essential in the reduction of current unemployment figures.
“South Africa’s export levels are well below those found in many emerging markets with the bulk concentration on raw materials. As a government, we want to see more finished products exported and value addition industries created which in turn will stabilize our economy, create jobs and reduce unemployment.”
Top ten South Africa’s export products were amongst other precious stones, ores, slag and ash, mineral fuels and oils, vehicles, iron and steel, machinery, edible fruits and nuts, including citrus, electrical equipment, aluminium and articles thereof and plastics.
