Johannesburg, South Africa – The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) is set to officially welcome new business tenants at the Jewellery Manufacturing Park (JMP) located within the OR Tambo International Airport Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Ekurhuleni.
This event, taking place on Friday March 15, 2024 signifies a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to revitalize the jewellery and diamond industry, promote economic development, and create jobs through the SEZ program.
A Hub for Mineral Beneficiation:
The JMP’s creation is directly tied to South Africa’s Mineral Beneficiation Strategy. This strategy aims to transform raw minerals extracted within the country into finished products destined for the global market. South Africa remains a critical supplier of raw materials to the international jewellery industry.
Revitalizing a Legacy:
Deputy Minister Fikile Majola of the DTIC highlighted the JMP’s role in reviving the South African jewellery and diamond industry, which has faced challenges since the early 2000s.
“The JMP fosters collaboration among key industry players,” stated Majola. “These include regulatory bodies like the State Diamond Trader and the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator.”
The Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator plays a crucial role in facilitating access to diamonds for beneficiation by South African manufacturers. Additionally, they review and approve licenses required for mineral beneficiation and trading within the country.
Beyond Jewllery Manufacturing:
The JMP goes beyond simply housing manufacturers. The zone offers a comprehensive ecosystem for the industry. This includes companies specializing in the secure transportation of high-value jewellery pieces to airside freight terminals. Additionally, a dedicated business development hub ensures skilled personnel have access to essential training opportunities.
Growth and Opportunity:
Upon full completion, the JMP will be home to 21 established businesses. Since its launch in 2021, seven tenants have already begun operations. Fourteen additional enterprises are finalizing their fit-outs or gearing up to commence operations in April 2024.
South Africa’s Gem: The Jewellery Manufacturing Park Takes Shape
The heart of South Africa’s jewellery industry is receiving a much-needed boost with the Jewellery Manufacturing Park (JMP) located within the OR Tambo International Airport Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Ekurhuleni. This initiative, driven by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), signifies a significant commitment to economic development, job creation, and the revitalization of the nation’s diamond and jewellery legacy.
A Hub for Mineral Beneficiation:
The JMP is more than just a manufacturing space. It’s the embodiment of South Africa’s Mineral Beneficiation Strategy. This strategy aims to transform the country’s wealth of raw minerals into finished products for the global market. South Africa remains a powerhouse in terms of raw materials, and the JMP aims to unlock the full potential of this resource.
Breathing New Life into a Legacy:
Deputy Minister Fikile Majola of the DTIC acknowledges the JMP’s crucial role in reviving the South African jewellery and diamond industry, which has faced challenges since the early 2000s.
“The JMP fosters a collaborative environment for key industry players,” stated Majola. “This includes the presence of regulatory bodies like the State Diamond Trader and the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator.”
These regulatory bodies play a vital role. The Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator facilitates access to diamonds for beneficiation by South African manufacturers. Additionally, they ensure responsible practices by reviewing and approving licenses required for mineral processing and trade within the country.
Beyond Manufacturing: A Complete Ecosystem
The JMP offers a comprehensive ecosystem for the jewellery industry, extending far beyond just housing manufacturers. Companies specializing in the secure transportation of high-value jewellery pieces to airside freight terminals are also located within the zone. This streamlined logistics network ensures efficient movement of finished products.
Furthermore, a dedicated business development hub plays a critical role. This hub fosters skilled personnel by providing essential training opportunities, ensuring a workforce equipped to meet the demands of the modern jewellery industry.
Growth and Opportunity:
The JMP is designed to accommodate a total of 21 established businesses upon completion. Since its launch in 2021, the park has already welcomed seven tenants who have begun operations. The momentum continues with an additional fourteen enterprises finalizing their fit-outs and gearing up to commence operations in April 2024.
The Jewellery Manufacturing Park signifies a bright future for South Africa’s jewellery industry. By fostering collaboration, ensuring responsible practices, and nurturing a skilled workforce, the JMP is poised to become a hub for innovation and growth, solidifying South Africa’s position as a key player in the global diamond and jewellery market.
Thank you for a great and insiteful article. It is wonderful to see progress in the jewellry manufacturing initiatives.