Newcastle Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Business confidence in South Africa has shown continued improvements since the beginning of 2010. The BCI (supplied by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry) seems likely to continue increasing over the short term.

Newcastle’s services and retail sector growth has been unrivaled over the last decade and further developments indicate that this trend will continue. Its geographical location is being leveraged by both public and private sectors, and the upgrade of the road infrastructure in the surrounding areas will ensure it remains attractive to further investment. Some instability in the clothing and textile manufacturing sector of recent; is of concern to this important labour intensive industry. Tourism will provide numerous opportunities into the future as the region establishes itself as an attractive destination to both domestic and foreign markets. This sector has not nearly reached its potential.

The Newcastle Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a community of small, medium and large scale enterprises who choose to support and align with each other towards a common goal. Its primary objective is to develop business through serving the economic interests of Newcastle and surrounds. Membership of the Chamber has grown by 32% during 2010, as business recognise the need of a unified voice to represent them. In 2011, the chamber movement has to position itself to ensure greater momentum towards economic recovery and that the obstacles to stronger business activity are removed.

Fundamental to securing a sustainable business friendly environment is the ability of all three tiers of government to deliver service. As the Newcastle leadership prepares to sign service delivery contracts which are expected to ensure an accountable and efficient local government system; the Chamber retains committed to continually monitor its progress and ensure our economy continues to thrive.

John L McGregor
Chamber President 2010 - 2011