Following the success of the 13th Manufacturing Indaba in Johannesburg, Manufacturing Indaba is expanding its national footprint with the launch of the Cape Town Manufacturing Summit, taking place on 11 November 2026.
The one-day summit will bring together manufacturers, industry leaders, policymakers, technology providers, investors and business decision-makers from across the Western Cape to explore the challenges, opportunities and innovations shaping the future of South African manufacturing.
As one of the country’s key manufacturing hubs, the Western Cape plays a vital role in driving industrial growth, exports, innovation and job creation. The Manufacturing Summit will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on strengthening regional competitiveness, accelerating industrialisation and supporting local manufacturers in an increasingly global marketplace.
The programme will feature expert keynote presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities focused on the issues that matter most to manufacturers today, including advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, skills development, sustainability, localisation, export opportunities and investment.
Building on the momentum of Manufacturing Indaba, Africa’s leading manufacturing conference and exhibition, the Cape Town Summit will connect regional manufacturers with national industry leaders while fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The Cape Town Manufacturing Summit reflects our commitment to supporting manufacturing growth across South Africa,” said Liz Hart, Managing Director of Manufacturing Indaba. “The Western Cape is home to a diverse and innovative manufacturing sector, and this summit will provide a valuable platform for industry stakeholders to exchange ideas, identify opportunities and work together to strengthen the sector’s contribution to economic growth.”
The summit is expected to attract executives, factory owners, plant managers, engineers, procurement professionals, government representatives, investors, SMEs and technology providers looking to gain practical insights, build strategic partnerships and explore new business opportunities.
Attendees can expect:
- High-level keynote presentations from industry experts
- Insightful discussions on the future of manufacturing
- Networking with decision-makers and industry peers
- The opportunity to view the latest trends in manufacturing technology and innovation as part of the showcase exhibition
- Practical strategies to improve competitiveness and drive business growth
As Manufacturing Indaba continues to champion industrial development across the continent, the Cape Town Manufacturing Summit serves as another important step in fostering collaboration, innovation and investment within South Africa’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Registration for the Cape Town Manufacturing Summit is now open.