Government unveils plan for 100,000 jobs as industrial push begins

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has announced plans to facilitate more than 100,000 job opportunities in the 2026/27 financial year as part of a renewed push to grow the economy.

The plan was presented to Parliament by Minister Parks Tau and forms part of the department’s Annual Performance Plan, which focuses on industrial expansion, investment and economic transformation.

Tau said the strategy is aligned with government priorities such as job creation, poverty reduction and lowering the cost of living.

At the centre of the plan is a major focus on industrialisation. The department aims to revitalise 15 industrial parks, particularly in marginalised areas, and bring 10 out of 12 Special Economic Zones (SEZs) into full operation.

According to Director-General Simphiwe Hamilton, these efforts are expected to support sector diversification and unlock employment opportunities, including skills training for up to 300 learners within industrial zones. He said this part of the programme alone could help facilitate up to 6,000 jobs.

The dtic also plans to disburse up to R4 billion through incentive schemes aimed at businesses that meet Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) requirements.

Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi said the goal is to convert improving economic conditions into “real industrial expansion” and sustainable jobs, especially for black-owned enterprises, small businesses, women and young people.

Another key part of the plan is a proposed Omnibus Industrial Development and Investment Acceleration Bill, which aims to reduce red tape and make it easier to invest and do business in South Africa.

Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams said the approach is focused on creating conditions for businesses to grow and employ more people at scale, supported by coordinated government action.

For communities in the Eastern Cape, where unemployment remains high, the announcement signals potential opportunities linked to industrial parks, skills programmes and small business support. However, it has not been confirmed which specific areas will benefit first.

The success of the plan will depend on how quickly projects are implemented and whether opportunities reach rural and underserved communities.

We will update this story as more details emerge on rollout timelines and locations.