The Green Deal and its consequences for South African manufacturers

The European Union has recently announced new environmental legislation that will fundamentally alter the ability of South African manufacturers to access this key export market. The legislation ranges from new carbon border taxes due for implementation in 2023; to circular economy directives covering product lifecycle use, and in the case of the automotive industry, ever tighter vehicle emission targets, and ultimately the banning of internal combustion vehicles. Navigating the complexity of these legislative and regulatory changes is likely to be challenging for most South African based manufacturers, although they also represent major opportunities. Firms that can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and manufacture environmentally sustainable products may experience huge export demand growth in this high-value market.

TWIMS is pleased to announce that it will be hosting Dr. Johan van Zyl, Executive Chairperson of Toyota South Africa Motors, at a TWIMS Breakfast Seminar on 8 June 2021. Dr. van Zyl was, until recently, the President and CEO of Toyota Europe. During his six year term in Europe he played a critical role in positioning Toyota to respond to a challenging global environmental context. Dr. van Zyl, who is also the Chairperson of TWIMS, will share his perspectives on plans for a Green Deal in Europe and discuss its consequences for South African manufacturers. Those signing up for the seminar, to be hosted at TWIMS’ campus, will get a chance to interact with manufacturing leaders and with TWIMS faculty over a wonderful breakfast prepared by TWIMS’ talented chef and his staff

As part of TWIMS’ ongoing efforts to share insights into major industry developments with the broader South African manufacturing community, Dr. van Zyl has agreed to present at the TWIMS Breakfast Seminar series.