SACCI REACTION TO THE STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) welcomes the positive tone of the State of the Nation Address delivered by President Zuma.

SACCI is pleased to note that the nine point plan to ignite growth and create jobs includes actions that it believes will provide the impetus that South Africa so badly needs.  The SME sector can play a pivotal role in achieving the successful implementation of the initiatives. SACCI appeals to government to engage stakeholders, specifically business, to assist in the execution of the programmes.

It is encouraging to note that resolving the energy crunch is regarded as the top priority. But it is regrettable that even the short term initiatives are unlikely to deliver early results. Without solutions to the electricity crisis, successful implementation of the other priorities will not be possible in the short to medium term. 

SACCI regards the current Migration Policy as an impediment to foreign direct investment and welcomes the undertaking given to invite dialogue on the policy and its associated regulations. The establishment of a one-stop inter-departmental clearing house to attend to investor complaints and problems is commendable.  However, while these initiatives are aimed at encouraging investment, the ban on foreign ownership of land is likely to be counter-productive as are the regulations aimed at limiting foreign ownership of companies such as those proposed for the security industry.

Business extends a hand of cooperation to government and is ready, willing and able to assist in ensuring that South Africa moves steadily towards becoming a priority domestic and foreign investment destination, the key to growth, job creation, poverty alleviation and a better life for all.

Statement issued by the President of SACCI, Mr Vusi Khumalo, February 13 2015

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter