Deputy government spokesperson William Baloyi says South Africa's economic recovery and long-term growth are built not only in boardrooms and policy meetings, but also in the everyday choices of ordinary South Africans.
From the corner spaza shop in Ga-Mokgotho, Burgersfort, to South African brands proudly competing on the global stage, supporting local businesses is one of the most powerful ways to do it. Build the economy.
“When we choose local, we are not just buying a product, we are supporting our people economically.
“We are supporting the entrepreneur running a small business in the township, the young designer turning talent into opportunity, the entertainment space producing the vibrant sound of Amapiano and the factory workers whose work depends on the demand for locally made goods.
“From Kasese to the world, South Africans have the creativity, resilience and talent to produce goods and services that can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best anywhere.
Baloyi said, “Every rand spent on local products keeps wealth flowing within communities, supporting families – helping grow businesses that create jobs. Local brands are proving that South African businesses can compete at the highest level.”
A great example of this is Portia M, which has become one of the country's most successful beauty brands, showing how local entrepreneurship can transform an industry.
MaXhosa Africa has become a global fashion player by integrating authentic African heritage with high-end fashion, appearing on international runways and opening a flagship store in Manhattan.
The Who collection and its premium packaging that combines artistry and sophistication, with each box representing a strong commitment to quality and design, has also become another South African success story.
South Africans have watched President Cyril Ramaphosa proudly endorse local sneaker brand, Bathu, sending a powerful message that supporting local businesses is not only patriotic, but also practical.
Today and Tuesday, Proudly South African celebrated the 14th edition of its Buy Local Summit & Expo, which is being held at the Sandton Convention Centre.
“Initiatives like the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit & Expo, which celebrates its 14th edition in 2026, are playing a vital role in uniting businesses, government and consumers to champion local production.
“It is a testament that over the years, this flagship event has evolved into a dynamic two-day gathering that highlights the quality, innovation and diversity of locally produced products and services.
“Proudly South African is the country's national buying local campaign, created in 2001 to promote job creation by promoting South African businesses, products and services, and rallying consumers, the public and the private sector to purchase locally produced goods and services,” Baloyi said.
The government is also committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and flourish.
In the 2026 national budget, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that the mandatory VAT registration threshold for small businesses will increase from R1 million to R2.3 million per annum from 1 April 2026.
“This reform will significantly reduce compliance costs and administrative burden for small enterprises, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their business expansion, innovation and job creation.
“Next, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competitiveness is finalizing a national industrial policy to develop a globally competitive manufacturing sector with a focus on decarbonization, diversification and digitalization,” Baloyi said.
Sectoral interventions are supporting automotive manufacturing, critical minerals beneficiation, agro-processing, furniture, clothing and emerging industries such as cannabis and hemp.
Furthermore, the government is taking deliberate steps to reduce the country's dependence on imported goods. Expanding local manufacturing and purchasing strengthens domestic industries, broadens markets and opens up opportunities for business expansion.
Baloyi said that by simplifying business regulations and compliance, the government is working to ensure that companies and entrepreneurs can focus on growth, innovation and job creation.
“It is equally important to equip people with the skills and knowledge to participate meaningfully in the economy. When South Africans shop local, they help sustain the factories, farms, small businesses and service providers that employ thousands of people across the country.
“These concerted efforts can play an important role in reducing the unemployment rate in our country, which remains one of the biggest obstacles. However, overcoming this challenge will require coordinated action by government, business and labor to increase production, stimulate demand for locally produced goods and expand employment opportunities.
“This approach is in line with the goals of the National Development Plan 2030, which sets out South Africa's long-term strategy to reduce unemployment, poverty and inequality while building a more inclusive society,” he said.
During the 2026 National Address, Presidency Cyril Ramaphosa announced that in the coming year, the government will provide more than R2.5 billion in funding to small and medium enterprises, and provide additional guarantees, with a particular focus on women- and youth-owned businesses. Red tape reduction, credit reforms and targeted support will help unlock growth at the local level.
“Every time you choose a South African product, you are not just buying, you are investing. Supporting local businesses is the most direct, practical way to boost our economic vision for South Africa.
“It's a simple choice that does the heavy lifting. It keeps people engaged.” Plans, strengthens domestic industries, and invests in a shared future. “Collaboration between consumers, businesses and government is essential to building a stronger, more resilient and inclusive economy for future generations,” Baloyi said. sanews.gov.za