The OR Tambo International Airport Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Precinct 1 has officially opened all its facilities.
The development of this precinct began in late 2018 and has seen various stages of completion, including the inauguration of several key buildings over the years.
Significant Developments and Facilities
Key buildings within the precinct include a precious metals refinery, an administrative building housing national regulatory agencies, and an investment by Belgian company Pluczenik, whose facility was inaugurated in February 2023 with the presence of King Philippe of Belgium. These buildings facilitate essential interactions with regulatory bodies like the South African Diamonds and Precious Metals Regulator (SADPMR) and the State Diamond Trader (SDT).
The completion of the final six buildings in Precinct 1 marks the fulfilment of a strategic vision by the Gauteng Provincial Government to create a mineral beneficiation cluster. This development aims to add value to South Africa’s raw minerals, thereby supporting the country’s re-industrialisation efforts and reducing the export of jobs associated with raw mineral exportation.
Jewellery and Diamond Manufacturing Cluster
The Jewellery Manufacturing Precinct (JMP) occupies over 40,000 square metres and hosts 19 companies involved in precious metal refining, diamond cutting and polishing, jewellery manufacturing, and diamond trading. The precinct includes a skills hub and regulatory agencies, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances efficiency and productivity in the mineral beneficiation sector.
Future Development: ORTIA Precinct 2 and Springs Precinct
Following the completion of Precinct 1, focus shifts to ORTIA Precinct 2 and the Springs Precinct. ORTIA Precinct 2, covering 29 hectares, is planned to support the production and export of mineral-beneficiated products, pharmaceuticals, health products, electronics, and fresh food. The Springs Precinct, on a 13-hectare site, will focus on the production of fuel cells, electrolysers, and capital and mining equipment, leveraging its proximity to a platinum refinery.
Opportunities and Implications for Jewellers
The establishment of the Jewellery Manufacturing Precinct within the OR Tambo SEZ represents a significant development for the jewellery industry in Southern Africa. Jewellers can benefit from the cluster’s enhanced connectivity and collaboration, which are expected to boost productivity and competitiveness. The presence of regulatory bodies within the precinct ensures streamlined operations concerning licensing, raw material access, and export processes.
As construction of Precincts 2 and 3 is set to begin later in 2024, jewellers and related businesses have opportunities to expand and innovate within these strategically positioned industrial hubs. The SEZ’s development aligns with broader national goals of job creation and economic growth, providing jewellers with a supportive environment for growth.
Looking Ahead
The completion of OR Tambo International Airport SEZ Precinct 1 marks a significant step in South Africa’s industrial strategy, offering jewellers and other industry stakeholders a platform for collaboration and efficiency. With the upcoming development of additional precincts, the region is positioned to become a major hub for mineral beneficiation and manufacturing.
