Development Dialogue – OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE OF THE STEEL INDUSTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) invites you to a hybrid Development Dialogue titled OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE OF THE STEEL INDUSTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA on Thursday 5 June 2025 at 11:00 – 1:00 PM.
Presentations: Options for the steel value chain - Dr Neva Makgetla
News Article: Steel localisation should remain focused on machinery, automotive, construction industries, experts say - Engineering News
11:00 – 11:10 Opening Remarks and Moderator: Chair Lesego Moshikaro-Amani
11:10 – 12:30 Presentations and discussion:
· Dr Neva Makgetla (TIPS) – Insights from Paper: Options for localising steel inputs for the infrastructure build programme
· Oren Kaplan (Cape Gate Mill) – Insights from Industry
· Ayabonga Cawe (ITAC) – Options on Steel
12:30 – 12:55 Discussion and Q/A
12:55 – 13:00 Closure
Background
Crude steel production in South Africa faces a structural crisis as a consequence of stagnant domestic and export demand combined with rapidly rising costs at AMSA, South Africa’s only integrated steel producer. The discussion will explore options for revitalising the steel value chain over the next five to ten years, and the policies needed to implement them.
TIPS Dialogues bring together academics, policymakers, civil society organisations, workers, and practitioners to discuss important issues and share ideas on industrial policy.
TIPS is partnering with the Department of Trade Industry and Competition (the dtic).
If you wish to join, in-person at TIPS offices, 234 Lange Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria, South Africa or virtually via Zoom please contact TIPS via email at: lesego.moepye@tips.org.za
About the Speakers
Presenters
Dr Neva Makgetla is a Senior Economist at TIPS. Makgetla has published widely on the South African economy and worked for many years in government.
Ayabonga Cawe is the Commissioner at The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa. He is a development economist with over a decade of experience across a wide range of areas including the public service, academia, policy research (industrial policy, local government, labour markets and transformation), advisory, media (broadcast and print) and entrepreneurship.
Oren Kaplan is the Chair of Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd. Founded in 1929, Cape Gate produces low carbon steel and steel wire and is arguably the largest purchaser of steel scrap in South Africa. After joining the Cape Gate group he has had senior roles in operations and sales and assumed leadership of the Company in 2009.