Creation of a regional cluster framework

Research objective

In response to a commission by the Department of Trade and Industry, B&M Analysts conducted comprehensive research on South Africa’s manufacturing landscape, to identify industrial clustering opportunities in South Africa that would support the growth and development of the economy.

Outcome

Launch of the Cluster Development Programme

Executive summary

In addition to the identification of key regional clustering opportunities, the three-phase research process resulted in a report that provided government with comparative international clustering policy analysis. The analysis highlighted key learnings for South Africa’s context, providing a clear understanding of what industrial clustering policy entails in a developing economy.

Value add to the client

A key recommendation of the report was for the creation of a regional cluster framework to be supported by the dti, to encourage the establishment of cluster networks in a bid to increase collective efficiencies within South Africa’s manufacturing base.

Results and future plans

As an outcome of this research, the dti recently announced the launch of the Cluster Development Programme, which provides grant funding to eligible clusters in the interests of supporting industry competitiveness.