Written by: Elizabeth Kunene

 The outstanding performance of companies exporting from KwaZulu-Natal was recognised and celebrated at the 17th edition of the 2017 KZN Exporter of the Year Awards.

The awards were hosted by the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT). The awards are designed to honour and promote large and small businesses that have proven their excellence in tough international markets and to inspire other ambitious companies to export their goods and services.

The event took place at the Durban ICC on Thursday 19 October.

Guest speakers were President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry Musa Makhunga, CEO of the Durban Chamber Dumile Cele, Nozipho Sitho CEO of Transnet Port Terminals and host was Gagasi FM Alex Mthiyane.

CEO of Transnet Port Terminals Nozipho Sithole, highlighted the vital role that exports play in growing the region and country’s economy.

“Exports play an important role in our economy by influencing the level of economic growth, employment and the balance of payments. Traditionally export jobs have been in manufacturing industries and are important source of full time employment especially in industrial regions,” said Nozipho Sithole.

She also added by saying that in recent years, exports have become more diversified with a greater confidence on service sector based exports which is why over the past two years an introduction to a new categories at the awards.

“Congratulations to all of you here tonight for playing your part in strengthening our economy. We recognize your excellence and are committed to working closely with you and other players in the export and import industry to provide you with the support you need to achieve optimum results”.

CEO of the Durban Chamber, Dumile Cele, highlighted the crucial sector of exports needs to ensure that more people enter into the platform as it’s the only way to reverse the trade shortfall and ensure stability and growth of the economy.

KwaZulu-Natal exports have increased and more than doubled to an estimated R122.8 billion in 2015 from an estimated R46.6 billion in 2005. This is a contribution of 18.9% as a proportion of GDP. Over and above this constitutes 11.8% of South Africa’s exports which is second after Gauteng (64.3%).

*Caption: SAPPI receiving their awards.