WHEREAS South African policies for economic growth and development recognise that responding to challenging global and domestic economic conditions demand a focus on new sources of competitiveness that lie in innovation and productivity, with an entrenched base in skills, infrastructure and efficient, responsive state action;

AND RECOGNISING that measures must be implemented to enhance domestic and regional demand, increase foreign direct investment and extend export promotion strategically to rapidly growing economies, while at the same time strengthening the South African industrial base and promoting a labour-absorbing industrialisation path;

AND REALISING the impact of Special Economic Zones in driving industrial and economic growth, the Government has identified Special Economic Zones as a mechanism that will contribute towards the realisation of these economic growth and development goals and is committed to support and facilitate the designation, regulation and development of Special Economic Zones in South Africa;

AND SINCE Special Economic Zones will be designated areas to promote targeted economic activities, supported through special arrangements and support systems including incentives, business support services, streamlined approval processes and infrastructure,

BE IT THEREFORE ENACTED by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, as follows:—