A textile engineer and founder of leading industrial lubricant manufacturer Petrofer, Tamer Taskin also brings decades of international business experience to his role as chairman of major chambers of industry and business councils. His long-standing relationship with South Africa, particularly through his tenure as the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of South Africa in Turkey since 1992, reflects his commitment to the country and his belief in its boundless potential.
This intersection of global perspective and African engagement positions him perfectly to represent and propel Cape Town. “It has all the ingredients to become a global hub for finance, tourism, technology and logistics,” he says. “South Africa is a country with a long history, fertile land, rich resources and a young population, yet its potential is not fully realised. Cape Town can lead the way in changing this,” he adds.
He believes that a clear strategy, effective leadership and skilled people will fast track Cape Town to world-class investment destination status. He has also invested significantly in promoting South Africa abroad, dedicating much of his time to actively shaping a positive and accurate image of the country, and of Cape Town in particular, as a leading investment destination.
“I regularly deliver monthly conferences at chambers of industry across my country to counter negative perceptions often portrayed in the media. I reinforce these efforts through articles I publish in the press, providing factual and constructive perspectives,” he says.
His vision is one rooted in collaboration and building trust as an economic value. “Investors need a transparent system, low bureaucracy and supportive regulations. Cape Town, as a strong brand within South Africa, is already positioned to offer this,” he says. He believes unity and trust creates stability that enables investment and progress.
He considers the city to be a multi-dimensional capital of tourism, business, agriculture, wine, industry and innovation. With its world-class infrastructure, globally connected port and thriving creative and tech industries, Cape Town has all the components to become a leading investment destination.
He believes that inclusivity and human development will be central to this process, calling for expanded technical and art schools, greater support for skilled work and the establishment of organised industrial zones to attract new enterprises. “By improving flight connectivity, enhancing security and investing in technical education and infrastructure, Cape Town can become not just a gateway to Africa, but a world-class destination for both business and leisure,” he says, adding that “national and local governments, the private sector and the community must work together to build Cape Town’s future.
World-leading companies are already here, proving the City’s global potential. With the right support, more investment will flow, more jobs will be created, and unemployment can be reduced.”
Get in touch with Tamer Taskin