In a powerful display of support for KwaZulu-Natal’s economy, local and multinational businesses — including giants like Toyota and Sappi — have pledged R75,8 billion in new investments for the province.
Announced at the KZN Trade and Investment Conference in Durban on Monday, the investment commitments span diverse sectors with business leaders at the event affirming their optimism in the growth and development prospects of the province.
KZN Premier Thami Ntuli said the substantial investment pledges demonstrate the success of the provincial government’s Trade and Investment Strategy, which has started yielding tangible results.
“This shows that we are building on a strong foundation,” Ntuli said.
Launched in 2019, the KZN Trade and Investment Strategy is designed to attract significant investments, stimulate economic growth, and create thousands of jobs.
Addressing business leaders and government officials gathered at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Durban ICC, Ntuli highlighted KZN’s continued economic development across several sectors.
The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) has experienced robust growth, drawing investments in heavy industry, metals, and energy—particularly in aluminium, steel, and chemicals. These industries have generated substantial job opportunities and created significant export potential.
KwaZulu-Natal’s status as an established tourism destination also received mention, with recent infrastructure developments, including the reopening of the international Hilton Hotel and renewed hotel chains along the Durban beachfront promenade, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
Local companies also joined the wave of investments. Pledges were made by Durban-based businessman Vivian Reddy’s Edison Property Group and property developer Westown.
These investments align with the provincial government’s inclusive economic development policy, which aims to ensure that economic growth benefits all, especially the underprivileged sectors of society.
Ntuli said it was important to incorporate rural areas and municipalities in the province’s growth plans, urging stakeholders to consider broader participation in economic opportunities.

I challenge this conference to deepen the conversation on the vital role of our municipalities and rural areas in investment opportunities.
“It is essential that we broaden our focus to include these areas within the province’s overall investment framework, ensuring they are not only participants but also beneficiaries of sustainable economic growth.
“By doing so, we can build a truly diversified, resilient, and competitive provincial economy.
Ntuli outlined his vision of a provincial economy that is balanced and thriving across all municipalities, cities, and rural regions.