The clothing and textile industry is poised to play a vital role in South Africa’s economic recovery and re-industrialisation, according to Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Andrew Whitfield. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting and 20th Anniversary of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC), held at UVU Africa in Cape Town, Whitfield outlined the sector’s potential to drive inclusive growth, job creation, and industrial transformation.
Highlighting government targets, Whitfield noted the ambition to generate 100,000 new direct manufacturing jobs, achieve 4.1% growth in manufacturing exports, and sustain an average 3% annual GDP growth during the current administration’s term.
He emphasised that South Africa’s economic resurgence hinges on a coordinated industrial strategy, led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) under the Government of National Unity. However, he was clear: “Government cannot achieve sector revitalisation alone. It requires collaboration across all stakeholders—from factory floors to innovation hubs and local supply chains.”
Whitfield praised the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster as a model for national progress, describing it as “a catalyst” for industry-wide development. “Through shared services, coordinated skills training, and supplier development, this cluster is building a stronger, more competitive and sustainable industry from the ground up,” he said.
The CCTC has played a key role in strengthening local supply chains, enhancing productivity, and equipping firms of all sizes to meet global market demands through innovation and agility.
Whitfield also addressed the trade imbalance in the clothing and textile sector, pointing to a 223% surge in imports. Through the Retail–Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather (R-CTFL) Master Plan, the government is working with industry partners to rebalance the sector and promote domestic manufacturing.
“We must boost our export capacity and focus on quality, reliability, and compliance to access key global markets with premium finished goods,” Whitfield said. “We must move from being exporters of raw materials to producers of high-value products.”
He concluded with a message of optimism and determination: “The road ahead is clear, and the groundwork is already in place. Through collaboration, innovation, and continued investment in people and partnerships, we can ensure that this sector not only survives—but thrives.”
