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portfolio and has consistently been able to secure investments. In 20172018 he brought in R84.4-billion in investments towards job creation, which is more than double his department’s R40-billion target.

He also unveiled the automotive masterplan programme that aims to increase local content in cars assembled in South Africa to 60% as well as the participation of blackowned companies in manufacturing the components.

Davies, who has been heading his department for close to a decade, received a clean audit this year. Of the 10 entities audited by the auditor general, seven had unqualified audit opinions. The department paid its creditors within 30 days.

Entities within the department

Skilled negotiator: Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies (right) has had a tough year, facing trade war threats, recession and corruption, all while trying to attract investors. Photo: David Harrison