Buying locally is more than a feel-good matter

UY LOCAL” movements continue to gain traction globally and have demonstrated time and again that buying close to home is more than a feel-good matter.

“Buying local” is a tried-and-tested method to stimulate job creation and alleviate poverty, and in our country, where we grapple with unemployment, poverty and inequality, every South African can make a difference in this regard.

Buying locally manufactured goods – whether it involves purchasing machinery worth millions or even just a T-shirt – begins a cycle in which you reinvest money into the local economy, instead of spending it on an imported product and sending the money out of the country.

Research shows there is a positive economic impact associated with keeping money “in town”, and communities around the world are increasingly depending on the “buy local” philosophy.

Spending your money on a Proudly South African product or a product “Made in South Africa” means you help to keep the worker who made that product employed.

When you “buy local”, you help create jobs and, in turn, help alleviate poverty.

Last September, two of South Africa’s Brics partners launched their own “buy local” campaigns to boost local manufacturing, create jobs and entice investment.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Made in India” marketing campaign amid much fanfare.

Four months into office, he has been unrelenting in his efforts to promote India as the world’s next manufacturing giant.

In a country where about 700 million people live in poverty, it was suggested at the “Made In India” event that 90 million manufacturing jobs could be created in India in the next 10 years.

Speakers also said a stronger manufacturing base would boost exports while linking India to global supply chains and help reduce the current account deficit.

Soon after India’s launch, China’s government launched its “Made In China” campaign, which comes with a host of tax concessions for local businesses to boost the manufacturing sector.

As consumers, at home and at the workplace, we have immense power to help uplift and grow South Africa’s economy, create jobs and make a tangible difference in the lives of ordinary South Africans.

As the country’s national Buy Local Campaign, Proudly South African hosts the annual “Buy Local Summit and Expo” with the aim, among others, of promoting local procurement and showcasing what South Africa has to offer.

We also aim to create links between local buyers and local sellers.

This year’s event – supported by Absa, Mango Airlines and Transnet – takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre today. About 500 delegates will have an opportunity to network with government officials, procurement officers, entrepreneurs, business owners and captains of industry. The programme will include high-level discussions on local procurement efforts in the country and the impact of local purchases (or lack thereof) on the manufacturing sector and job creation.

About 150 enterprises and organisations will also showcase their products and services, with a view to linking state organs and corporate business to local suppliers and entrepreneurs.

We encourage consumers and the public to attend (for free) and see the best that South Africa has to offer. See buylocalsummit.co.za for more information. Join us in supporting, promoting and celebrating local products and services: Be Proudly South African – buy local to create jobs.

Adv Leslie Sedibe is the chief executive of Proudly South African.

Purchasing products made in South Africa helps to create jobs and alleviate poverty