2025 – A transformative year for TASEZ

By Andile Sangweni, Executive for Infrastructure

As 2025 draws to a close, it offers an important moment to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and defining developments that have shaped the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ).

This has been a year of momentum, consolidation, and forward vision and one that has reaffirmed our position as one of South Africa’s leading special economic zones (SEZs) while pushing the boundaries of what world-class infrastructure delivery can look like.

This has indeed been a transformative year for TASEZ. We have not only upheld our position as one of the country’s most advanced and impactful SEZs, but we have also redefined excellence in infrastructure delivery.

Despite various national and global challenges, Phase 1 milestones were successfully achieved, demonstrating the strength of our operational planning and the resilience of our development model.

With Phase 2 now underway, our focus is shifting decisively toward breaking ground and embracing the next wave of industrial growth.

This phase is not simply an expansion, it is a catalytic step in deepening South Africa’s manufacturing capabilities and strengthening the country’s role in the global automotive value chain.

Heading into Phase 2

A central achievement of 2025 has been laying the groundwork for the next phase of TASEZ’s evolution.

The defining highlight of the year has been our work on ensuring the seamless integration of new infrastructure with Phase 1 facilities. This preparation is more than a technical requirement; it is a strategic pointer to our ongoing growth trajectory.

It is about investor confidence, job creation, and community impact.

The readiness to commence Phase 2 represents a collective vote of confidence from our stakeholders. It also confirms that infrastructure remains the backbone of sustainable economic transformation.

Ready to tackle any test

The year has not been without its challenges. South Africa continues to grapple with issues that directly influence industrial performance:

• Energy security;
• Skills development; and
• Global competitiveness.

Our response to these pressures has been deliberate and solution-driven.

We are advancing energy resilience through renewable integration, ensuring that future phases of the zone offer greater stability and sustainability.

We are driving a skills revolution through strengthened partnerships with educational and training institutions through the TASEZ Training Academy, preparing young people for the advanced manufacturing jobs of the future.

And we are sharpening our global edge by streamlining processes and enhancing investor support mechanisms.

Amid these dynamics, TASEZ’s role in advancing South Africa’s industrial development has become even more pronounced. TASEZ is a catalyst for the country’s industrialisation ambitions. By hosting world-class manufacturers, the zone embeds advanced technologies, creates sustainable employment opportunities, and supports the development of resilient supply chains.

Our work also contributes to economic diversification, reducing import dependency and positioning South Africa as a globally competitive producer. In every sense, TASEZ is shaping industries, futures, and communities—delivering impact far beyond our physical footprint.

As we look ahead, 2026 must be a year defined by acceleration and bold action. Our priorities are clear:

• Breaking ground on Phase 2;
• Attracting a surge of new investors;
• Driving a green infrastructure revolution; and
• Deepening community integration.

These commitments will ensure that TASEZ continues to set the benchmark for industrial excellence, innovation, and inclusiveness.