Export-oriented business is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the automotive industry in South Africa, in the view of Ockert Berry, vice president operations, Ford Middle East and Africa. “It will continue to play an important role in the South African economy and overall GDP while creating allimportant job opportunities, either directly through the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or in the broader value chain.” Ford, he said, currently employed around 4 300 people in South Africa, and supported over 50 000 jobs in the value chain. “There are still great opportunities to expand our export reach even further, and we need to continue building momentum in this crucial sector.” Berry said a reliable value chain with a network of supply companies was critical for export growth overall. Finding solutions to logistics challenges and remaining cost competitive globally were imperative if South Africa wanted to grow automotive exports. “We have to be able to meet the stringent quality standards, but also be able to achieve the requisite quantities and deliver them timeously.” His advice to exporters was to engage with logistics service providers continuously. “Communicate and put plans in place with them to address the issues. Do not wait for it to be resolved on your behalf.
