In August 2007, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mandisi Mpahlwa, launched the National Industrial Policy Framework (NIPF) and the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) at the IDC's headquarters.
| The Minister made special reference to the IDC's contribution in the formulation of the NIPF, specifically through its constructive relationship with policy makers, research assistance and economic modelling expertise, and by playing an advisory role on industrial and socio-economic development matters. |
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The NIPF and the IPAP were designed to provide clarity and transparency to the private sector and other partners, both domestic and foreign, on the direction of critical elements of economic policy. The documents constitute the framework for Government’s industrial policy and related interventions over the next few years.
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Mr Mandisi Mpahlwa
Minister of Trade and Industry |
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Notwithstanding Government’s continued involvement in and assistance to numerous other industries, four sectors have been singled out as warranting particular focus, namely: capital/transport equipment and metals; automotive assembly and components; chemicals, plastic fabrication and pharmaceuticals; as well as forestry, pulp and paper, and furniture. The selection of these four sectors was based on their growth potential, as well as their ability to create employment, contribute to diversification of the economy, liberate it from the traditional dependence on commodities and grow our country’s export base.
The goals of the NIPF and IPAP, which include broadening participation in the economy, providing support for small and medium enterprises, growing employment opportunities and promoting broad-based Black Economic Empowerment, are in tandem with the IDC’s mandate and are all key objectives of our Leadership in Development strategy. The IDC looks forward to playing an instrumental role in ensuring that the developmental objectives of the NIPF and IPAP are accomplished. In addition to interventions focused on the priority sectors, the IDC will continue to contribute effectively to the formulation and implementation of strategies aimed at developing several other sectors of economic activity, including mineral beneficiation, agro-processing and, among others, the creative industries.
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