The OR Tambo precinct: Africa’s gateway to trade and investment

As Africa’s largest and busiest airport, OR Tambo International Airport plays a critical role in facilitating trade, investment, and economic growth in South Africa and the broader continent.

Strategically located in Gauteng, South Africa’s economic powerhouse, the airport and its surrounding Special Economic Zone (SEZ) form the nucleus of the OR Tambo Precinct—a key area fostering international trade, tourism, and industrial growth.

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Through its strategic partnerships and facilitative initiatives, invest SA Gauteng is positioning the OR Tambo Precinct as Africa’s primary gateway for trade and investment, leveraging infrastructure and economic support to attract global investors.

A Strategic Hub for Trade and Economic Growth

OR Tambo International Airport is more than a transit point; it’s a vital trade hub connecting Africa to the world. Handling millions of passengers and significant cargo traffic annually, the airport is a crucial link in both global supply chains and passenger networks. According to Statistics South Africa, OR Tambo processed over 400,000 tons of air cargo in 2023 alone, accounting for approximately 80% of South Africa’s air freight. The airport’s connectivity to major global destinations allows businesses within the precinct to quickly and efficiently reach international markets, making Gauteng an attractive location for trade and export-oriented enterprises.

The growth in air traffic volume is also impressive, with an average of 21 million passengers traveling through OR Tambo annually, even as the global travel industry recovers from recent challenges. This consistent passenger and cargo volume reinforces the airport’s role as a critical gateway for Africa-bound investment, while further solidifying Gauteng’s standing as a leading economic zone in Africa.

The OR Tambo Special Economic Zone: A Catalyst for Industrialization and Job Creation

The OR Tambo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a key initiative supporting economic growth in Gauteng. Established to boost industrial development and attract foreign direct investment (FDI), the SEZ provides tax incentives, infrastructure support, and streamlined regulatory processes for businesses. Since its inception, the OR Tambo SEZ has been instrumental in creating jobs and driving industrialization in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and advanced technology.

One of the SEZ’s notable achievements has been the successful attraction of multinational companies, particularly in high-value sectors like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and automotive components. As of 2024, the SEZ has attracted over R1 billion in investments, generating approximately 10,000 jobs in the region. These investments have not only strengthened Gauteng’s industrial base but have also created numerous opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through supply chain partnerships.

Sipho Marala, Group Executive for Trade, Investment and Regulatory Enablement at the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), comments, “The OR Tambo SEZ has become a critical economic zone for both South Africa and the continent. By creating an environment that is favourable for manufacturing and trade, the SEZ is laying a solid foundation for long-term economic growth.”

invest SA Gauteng: Empowering Investors and Boosting Confidence

invest SA Gauteng, has been instrumental in making Gauteng a preferred destination for investors. Through targeted interventions and incentives, the agency has simplified regulatory procedures and provided critical support for foreign and local investors. This assistance has proven crucial for investors, many of whom have highlighted how the seamless processes have reduced costs and timelines for establishing businesses.

invest SA Gauteng’s role goes beyond facilitating investment; it actively promotes Gauteng as a strategic trade hub. The agency’s efforts have resulted in an increase in FDI, with Gauteng receiving approximately 50% of South Africa’s total FDI inflows. A recent report by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development states that the province secured investments worth R80 billion in 2023, a significant portion of which was directed to the OR Tambo Precinct.

According to a recent statement by the South African Reserve Bank, “Gauteng’s focus on facilitating trade and investment through initiatives such as the OR Tambo SEZ demonstrates a commitment to strengthening South Africa’s role in the global economy. The economic resilience displayed in this region is instrumental in building investor confidence and fostering sustainable economic growth across the country.”

Expanding Africa’s Economic Horizons through Trade and Investment

With its strategic location and business-friendly environment, the OR Tambo Precinct is paving the way for Gauteng’s emergence as a top investment destination. As the global economy shifts towards Africa for new growth opportunities, Gauteng’s role as a gateway for investment will likely strengthen further, positioning the OR Tambo Precinct as a linchpin for regional and international trade. invest SA Gauteng’s commitment to facilitating business is crucial for sustaining this growth. Through proactive policy frameworks, the agency is helping the precinct maximize its strategic advantages, driving economic resilience and boosting investor confidence in the province.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the OR Tambo Precinct

As Gauteng continues to develop its infrastructure and enhance its trade corridors, the OR Tambo Precinct is expected to attract even greater levels of investment in the coming years. The continued support from invest SA Gauteng, along with complimentary government policies, will ensure the precinct remains a competitive hub for trade, creating new economic opportunities and fostering sustainable growth in the region.

The OR Tambo Precinct’s success illustrates the transformative potential of strategically positioned infrastructure and supportive economic policies. By acting as a gateway to trade and investment, the precinct is not only bolstering Gauteng’s economy but is also advancing South Africa’s vision of becoming a key player in the global economy.

Click here to learn more about Africa’s gateway to trade and investment.