Western Cape Export Strategy 2035
A roadmap to triple exports, create jobs and position the Western Cape as Africa's trade hub.
The Western Cape Export Strategy is led by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), in partnership with WESGRO and key stakeholders across government and the private sector.
Exports are central to the Western Cape’s economic future. By expanding access to global markets, supporting exporters, and improving the trade environment, the province aims to drive inclusive economic growth that benefits businesses, workers, and communities across the Western Cape.
Why exports matter
Exports are a powerful driver of economic growth and job creation. By selling goods and services beyond the domestic market, businesses can grow production, reach economies of scale, attract investment, and innovate. Export-led growth is a core pillar of the Western Cape’s Growth for Jobs (G4J) strategy and is essential to unlocking sustainable, long-term employment opportunities.
Targets by 2035
R408bn
The value of Cape Town's exports by 2035
263 160
Projected jobs from increased exports
1,000
New exporters targeted after 5 years
10
New export product opportunities by 2035
The Strategy at a glance
Vision
To establish the Western Cape as a leading global export region and a sought-after source market internationally.
Timeframe
2025 - 2035
Impact
If executed within a 12-year timeframe, the strategy will deliver 263 160 jobs, with a GVA impact of R58.4bn
Alignment
The Export Growth Strategy forms part of the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs (G4J) economic strategy, which aims to build a R1-trillion inclusive economy by 2035.
Objectives
- Increased exports of goods from the Western Cape from R136 billion in 2020 to R408 billion by 2035.
- Increase the number of active exporters in the Western Cape by 1000 by 2035.
- Identify and unlock 10 new export product opportunities by 2035.
The six strategic outcomes
The strategy is built around six strategic outcomes that guide government action and partnerships:
1. Increased awareness of the Western Cape brand in priority markets
Promoting the Western Cape’s products, services, and capabilities in key international markets, while improving exporters’ understanding of market requirements and opportunities.
2. Enhanced competitiveness and sustainability of exporters
Supporting exporters to improve productivity, innovation, compliance with international standards, and environmental sustainability.
3. Improved market access and lower barriers to trade
Working with national government and international partners to address tariffs, standards, and non-tariff barriers that limit export growth.
4. Establishment of the Western Cape as a regional hub for services trade
Strengthening exports in services such as tourism, ICT, business process outsourcing, and professional services.
5. Better representation of Western Cape interests in national trade policy
Ensuring that the province’s export priorities are reflected in national trade programmes, negotiations, and agreements.
6. More efficient, cost-effective and sustainable infrastructure
Addressing infrastructure constraints related to ports, logistics, energy, and transport to improve export competitiveness.
Priority sectors and markets
The strategy focuses on growing and diversifying exports across priority sectors, including:
- Agriculture and agro-processing
- Manufacturing and advanced manufacturing
- Chemicals and pharmaceuticals
- Green technologies and renewable energy-related products
- Services, including tourism, ICT, BPO, and professional services
Priority markets include:
- Africa, through SACU, SADC, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
- Europe and the United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Asia and the Middle East
These markets present significant opportunities for both established exporters and new, emerging businesses.
Support for exporters
The Western Cape Government provides a range of support initiatives to assist exporters at different stages of their export journey, including:
- Export Advancement Programme (EAP)
- Trade missions and international marketing campaigns
- Export promotion and market access support
- Online Export Course
- The Cape Trade Portal, a central source of trade-related information
These initiatives are implemented in partnership with WESGRO, industry bodies, and national government programmes.
Implementation and partnerships
The implementation of the Export Growth Strategy is led by DEDAT and WESGRO, working closely with:
- Other provincial departments
- National government departments and agencies
- Municipalities
- Export councils and industry associations
- The private sector
Progress will be monitored through a dedicated implementation and monitoring framework to ensure accountability, impact, and continuous improvement.
Get involved
Export growth is a shared responsibility between the government and the private sector. Exporters, investors, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the strategy and take advantage of available support.
Learn more or get support:
- E-mail DEDAT sector.support@westerncape.gov.za
Contact WESGRO