Hon House Chair, the IFP is in support of the finding of this report, as we believe that the push for beneficiation is long overdue. The lack of beneficiation policies and practices is one of the reasons that towns such as Kimberley remain as towns, instead of evolving into the cities they deserve to be, because the diamonds originating from the area should have added value to the place. It is unfortunate that implementation of beneficiation practices comes at a time when South Africa can't be sufficiently competitive. The massive shortage of the necessary skills undercuts attempts at development, specifically in the manufacturing sector.
The short-term importation of foreign skills can be a temporary measure, so as to help develop the necessary skills within the country. This can be done through aligning the school syllabus with what is needed in the marketplace. Some graduates could take part in reskilling programmes to equip them with what they need to succeed in this sector.
The ever-rising cost of electricity discourages foreign investment in the country. High port tariffs and the e-tolling of our roads are also working against the development of the manufacturing sector, thus undercutting beneficiation.
If beneficiation is to take place, local finished products should be protected. Charters such as the Mining Charter, for example, should be reinforced in order to promote the destiny of black people in this country. Blacks find themselves competing with Brics countries in a manufacturing market where they already start off at a disadvantage. Manufacturing in China, for instance, is heavily subsidised and their products end up being dumped in our country and continent because we make it hard for local producers to thrive. France, for instance, does not allow anyone else to sell Champagne. Instead we have to refer to our products as sparkling wine.
Too many people remain unemployed because we have not taken the steps necessary to protect our markets and ensure that beneficiation happens in the country. In order to thrive we need to look after our own businesses. I thank you. [Time expired.]