Chinese electronics manufacturer Hisense has invested R72-million investment into its refrigeration and television production lines at its Atlantis factory in the Western Cape.
Referring to the investment as an “important achievement”, trade & industry minister Rob Davies said the injection into the plant is proof that South Africa remains an attractive investment destination across all sectors, including advanced manufacturing.
Hisense makes flat-panel televisions, household appliances and mobile phones. It is expanding its plant as it gears for the growth of the fast-moving consumer goods sector on the African continent.
“This investment brings Hisense’s total investment in this Atlantis plant to R440-million, which is a significant investment,” said Davies.
At Monday’s launch, Davies was informed that the plant has been rated as the best performing plant in the world outside China.
“This means that the plant is performing better than others based in North America and the European Union member countries. This is something we need to be proud of as a country and I congratulate Hisense South Africa for that accolade. This is part of our pitch as a country for manufacturing investment that if you come and invest in South Africa, you will have a good experience.”
Manufacturing programme
The first investment was supported by trade & industry through its manufacturing and competitive enhancement programme, as well as through the tariff rate dispensation.
The manufacturing development is a much needed boost to the local community of Atlantis, with more than 500 people being employed on a permanent basis.
President of Hisense Middle East and Africa Jerry Liu said the new manufacturing lines would not only create 150 new job opportunities but high-level skills development will be at the forefront of the investment.
“As we expand our presence in Southern Africa, Hisense remains committed to providing solutions that will enable growth and sustain economic development. Hisense is keen to support government localisation programmes by partnering with South African manufacturers and logistics network to consolidate an integrated domestic supply chain,” said Liu. — SANews
