state of the stainless steel nation
Getting a handle on knives and forks A similar scenario is playing out in the holloware sector. Holloware includes products such as cookware, pots, pans and other cooking utensils. As mentioned earlier, South Africa had the capacity and technology twenty years ago to be not only a market leader and exporter of these items but had the ability to supply more than 80% of local demand. This is an industry in which around three to five jobs per ton can be created in the value chain thus a critical sector for job creation for skilled and semi-skilled employment. More than 16 000 tons were imported during 2024 compared to 1417 tons being exported. Once again the few local suppliers able to service the market have to compete on another
slanted playing surface against products that use substandard material, that do not comply with SABS standards, and
in many cases also clearly subsidised
in some form or another.
“The question is not whether South Africa can rise to the challenge— but how quickly “
Seizing the opportunity for growth On the positive side, Sassda has been working with Columbus Stainless and other industry partners to link major retailers with South African producers. The revival of this industry will not take place overnight, but will rather be a slow process focussed on limited items which will allow local producers gain experience and capacity to tackle the broader market. However, it remains outside the Sassda’s domain or that of private industry to administrate and initiate regulations to level the playing fields. In the face of this, the need for a sharper focus on import tariffs has never been more important. However, the decision ultimately lies with the government, but unfortunately there has been little movement on the issue. This uncertainty has made it difficult for manufacturers to plan for the future, further hindering growth in the sector The sector needs to be positive and proactive and as part of this drive Sassda is trying to create new potential markets for local stainless steel. Innovation in the South African stainless steel industry has been in existence since the early years when one of the most notable achievements in the global industry was developed namely 3CR12. This stainless steel grade was pioneered by the local mill, Columbus Stainless as far back as the 1980s. This material is currently used in various industries, including rail, transport, and construction. The full potential of this cost-effective replacement for coated steel products has not been fully developed and rectifying this will be a Sassda key focus during 2025.
8
Issue 1 – 2025
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online