Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry wants Government to intervene against a tariff imposed by the United States on imports from South Africa.
At risk are 3,500 direct jobs, and a R5 billion industry, in 2023 alone.
As a result, the City is now recognised globally as a leading exporter of catamarans, with the United States as the primary market for many local manufacturers.
The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, has written to Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau to express serious concerns over the potential imposition of a significant tariff by the United States on boat imports from South Africa.
The letter follows formal engagement between Alderman Vos and representatives from Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry, including BlueCape and the South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX).
Vos, said “Cape Town’s boatbuilders offer highly specialised skills that align with US interests in marine manufacturing and skills development. This should be a platform for partnership, not punitive trade measures.”
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