Cape Town’s Economic Mission: James Vos Unveils Record Numbers Driving Growth and Business Expansion
Cape Town Powers Economic Growth with Key Industry Successes
Cape Town’s economic growth strategy is achieving extraordinary results, driven by a focused agenda to empower industries and create opportunities for all Capetonians. The city has reached record-breaking milestones in three pivotal sectors: marine manufacturing and boat building, clothing production, and the green economy. These achievements highlight the impact of targeted investments, workforce development programmes, and strong partnerships with industry leaders.
Empowering Industries Through Strategic Partnerships
The foundation of this success lies in the City’s Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) programme, which funds sector-specific initiatives in collaboration with organisations like Blue Cape, the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster, and Green Cape. These partnerships have delivered transformative results:
- Marine Manufacturing: Over 300 luxury boats were built in Cape Town, establishing the city as a global leader in recreational boat building. This sector contributes an impressive R4.7 billion annually to the local economy.
- Clothing Production: Cape Town produced 105 million garments this year, showcasing the industry’s resurgence and positioning South Africa as a trusted global supplier. The sector adds R5.6 billion to Cape Town’s economy.
- Green Economy: Cape Town-based renewable energy companies have made significant strides, delivering 4 gigawatts (GW) of projects across public and private sectors in 2024/25, representing an estimated R100 billion in investment.
Transforming Cape Town’s Economic Landscape
“These results show what’s possible when government and industry work in tandem,” said James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth. “By fostering strategic partnerships and prioritizing investment facilitation, we’ve created an environment where businesses thrive and opportunities flourish. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see these efforts translating into real benefits for the people of Cape Town.”
Vos emphasized the vital role of private-sector collaboration in driving these outcomes. “From engaging with businesses on the ground to creating pro-growth policies, we’re committed to sustaining this momentum and reaching even greater heights.”
Looking to the Future
While these milestones are significant, Vos views them as the foundation for continued progress. “We’re determined to keep strengthening our partnerships, expanding workforce programmes, and enhancing investment support to ensure sustained growth and prosperity for all Capetonians,” he said.
Cape Town’s economic story is one of collaboration and transformation. By uniting local government, the private sector, and community leaders, the city is setting new benchmarks for success.
“The road ahead is promising, and I remain committed to ensuring that Cape Town’s growth continues to create opportunities for every resident,” Vos concluded. “Together, we can make Cape Town an even greater hub for innovation, investment, and economic opportunity.”
