Implementation of the AMTS

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Download the Micro-Manufacturing Strategy (2008) here.

The Manufacturing Environment in South Africa

The manufacturing sector is seen by many economists as being at the forefront of an economy that is moving up the development ladder, taking it to higher levels of sophistication and efficiency. Manufactured products are more easily traded than agricultural products or services and face keen competition from the established products of developed countries as well as the inexpensive products of less developed countries. Gains in the manufacturing sector spread quickly to other sectors, resulting in the balanced development of the economy as a whole. This places pressure on the manufacturing sector to be more competitive and makes manufacturing fertile ground for innovation.

Against this background, the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI), which advises Cabinet through the Ministry of Science and Technology, initiated the National Advanced Manufacturing Technology Strategy (AMTS). The strategy was developed in collaboration with stakeholders to improve the competitiveness of South Africa’s manufacturing sector and was launched by the Department of Science and Technology in September 2003.

About AMTS
The thrust of the AMTS is to strengthen the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector through the implementation of targeted, high-impact projects in areas such as industry development, world-class manufacturing, innovation and research & development (R&D) as well as the development of human resources. The strategy is being expedited through the AMTS Implementation Unit, established and supported by the Department of Science and Technology.

The Unit facilitates the partnership between Industry and Academia, including Science Institutions, through the establishment of government-supported and industry-directed technology centres, networks and projects.

The strategy adopts a matrix approach where linkages are drawn within and between the prioritised sectors and technology areas. The strategy identifies and implements industry need-driven initiatives, which are essential to a truly national and globally competitive manufacturing environment.

The AMTS’ ultimate objectives are to:

  • Develop a vision of the technological profile of the manufacturing sector;
  • Increase local innovation through the supply of skilled manpower, technology infrastructure and funds;
  • Make South Africa less dependent on imported technologies;
  • Strengthen current industries through utilisation of technology and create new industries based on new technologies;
  • Increase the value of exports; and
  • Enhance the knowledge base and the knowledge intensity of
    South Africa’s manufacturing sector.

The strategy recognises the need to integrate technology upgrading of the manufacturing sector with other essential industry development factors such as a favourable investment climate, competitive business costs, enhanced infrastructure and improved skills.

By developing and implementing strategies to enhance the global competitiveness of South Africa’s manufacturing sector, the AMTS is poised to increase wealth and improve the quality of life of all South Africa’s people.