Thursday, 13 August 2026

Unemployment was described as a crisis-level problem, with calls to shift industrial policy away from capital-heavy sectors towards labour-intensive manufacturing, public investment and job creation on a larger scale.

Franchise growth was framed as a shift from chasing store counts to improving existing outlets, with coaching for franchisees seen as more effective than compliance-only area management.

A rand-denominated JSE-listed AI ETF was pitched as a way for local investors to access the AI boom without buying foreign currency, while spreading risk across infrastructure, automation and data themes.

South African biotech was presented as internationally competitive, with Biomedical Emporium’s founder saying rigorous regulatory standards, academic work and local research can help the country challenge global brands.

A new APSA and DHL initiative will help SMEs navigate export rules, cash flow, FX and logistics, with the first step for businesses to approach their bank and ask for a referral.