Newcastle: The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams, has announced that enforcement authorities are investigating alleged non-compliant garment manufacturing operations in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. This follows concerns raised by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) regarding media reports of non-compliance and the potential involvement of goods linked to major retailers in these facilities.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Deputy Minister stated that it is essential for these investigations to proceed without interference. She highlighted the broader systemic issues related to supply-chain accountability and the integrity of South Africa’s clothing and textile sector. Abrahams emphasized the importance of lawful conduct and shared responsibility in driving economic growth through sustainable industrial development.
Abrahams pointed out that South Africa cannot expand its manufacturing base through unsafe and illegal operations. She noted that factories failing to meet labour standards distort competition, undermine compliant businesses, and expose workers to unacceptable conditions. Although the dtic is not directly responsible for enforcing labour, immigration, or occupational health and safety laws, it has a vested interest in ensuring that illegal operations do not undermine the domestic manufacturing sector.
The Deputy Minister stressed that enforcement alone cannot address systemic risks in fragmented supply chains. She called on large retailers and brand owners to conduct due diligence in procurement and supplier management practices. Abrahams also advocated for improved inter-departmental coordination and data visibility across the sector, supporting collaboration with enforcement agencies to prevent industrial areas from becoming hubs for illegal manufacturing activities.
Abrahams intends to engage with the Retail Clothing, Textile, Footwear, and Leather Masterplan Executive Oversight Committee to discuss the Newcastle incident’s implications and identify ways to enhance supply-chain accountability and cooperative enforcement within the industry. The objectives of the Masterplan are based on a governance framework that promotes decent work, lawful business activity, and formalization of the value chain.
The Deputy Minister concluded by underscoring the importance of strengthening disclosure mechanisms to improve supply chain visibility and prevent illicit or exploitative practices from entering formal retail channels.