Global firms seen growing South Africa operations by 45% by 2030

Global companies are set to significantly expand or set up operations in South Africa by the end of the decade to access its talent pool.

The offshoring industry is expected to grow to $6.8 billion by 2030, or 1.6% of gross domestic product, from an estimated $4.4 billion, or 1% of GDP, currently and create more than 212 000 skilled jobs, according to research conducted by global talent solutions firm Robert Walters.

The growth offers a rare bright spot for a country struggling with one of the world’s highest unemployment rates at 33.2%.

It is also dealing with new pressure from US tariffs aimed at bringing companies back to America and criticism of its Black economic-empowerment policies, which were introduced after 1994 to address racial inequalities from colonialism and apartheid.

South Africa’s strong English proficiency, close time-zone alignment with Europe, and its growing reputation for high-quality business and technology services