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We’ve all heard the lofty promises of AI: it’s going to "transform the world" and "disrupt every industry." But for a business owner in KwaZulu-Natal, the only question that really matters is: "How does this help me sell more tomorrow?"  At the AI Unlocked  forum on 13 May , Terry Flack , Business Success Leader at Cannect Digital, is coming to the party with the answer. Terry isn't interested in science fiction; he’s interested in Performance Marketing . As the driving force behind a Google and Meta Partner agency, Terry brings a specialized "street-level" view of AI to the panel. His contribution is vital for leaders who need to see: Terry Flack is Bridging the Gap Between AI Theory and Profit The End of the "Response Time" Problem:  Terry is a vocal advocate for using AI to slash lead response times. In a market where 78% of customers buy from the first business to respond , Terry shows how AI-driven automation ensures you’re always first. Predictive Customer Insights:  Moving beyond simple demographics, Terry illustrates how AI can analyze real-time consumer sentiment to predict future behavior—letting you spend your marketing budget on the leads most likely to convert. Sustainable Growth vs. Hype:  Terry’s focus is on "Business Success." He will be stripping away the jargon to show how data-driven decisions lead to sustainable operational growth, not just temporary spikes. If Warren Sachs provides the Boardroom Vision and Daren Denholm provides the Human Strategy, Terry Flack provides the Engine . He is the link between "that’s a cool idea" and "that’s a profitable campaign." Note: This is a strictly invite-only briefing and space is extremely limited. If you haven't received an invitation but believe you should be in the room, please reach out to Maryke Dickinson (Business Development & Online Content) at maryke@kzntopbusiness.com  or 082 877 7906. There is a slim, outside chance of a last-minute opening, and we’d love to accommodate the province’s most dedicated leaders where possible. KZN Top Business Team KZN Top Business Team www.kzntopbusiness.com

Grant Adlam ------------------------------ When I sat down with Melanie Veness back in 2020, the air was thick with the uncertainty of a world in lockdown. At the time, we spoke about survival—how businesses in Pietermaritzburg and across South Africa could possibly weather the storm of a global pandemic. Melanie was already a fierce advocate, but she was playing defense, holding the line for a business community under siege. The Architect of Resilience: Melanie Veness and the Great Business Fightback Fast forward to 2026, and the "Melanie Veness" of our 2020 interview has undergone a remarkable evolution. She isn't just defending anymore; she’s leading a national and global renaissance. From Local Hero to Global Voice The most inspiring chapter of this story is Melanie’s recent appointment to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation General Council. It is a prestigious leap. The woman who was fighting for the shops on Chief Albert Luthuli Street is now sitting at the table in Paris, representing South Africa on the world stage for the 2025–2028 term. It’s a powerful reminder that local grit can command global respect. The "BizNews" Blueprint: Action Over Agony In her recent appearances with BizNews, Melanie has become the face of what she calls the "Business Fightback." If 2020 was about asking for help, 2026 is about taking charge. She has become a vocal leader in the movement where the private sector no longer waits for the state to fix a water pipe or a pothole—they simply do it themselves. "If we all stand up and we all just do something," she recently noted, "we can have the South Africa that we were promised." The Full Circle Looking back at our 2020 interview, the seeds of this transformation were already there. Her passion for the Pietermaritzburg & Midlands Chamber of Business (PMCB) wasn't just about commerce; it was about community. Today, as the Chair of the Association of South African Chambers (ASAC), she is scaling that local passion into a national strategy for recovery. The Takeaway Melanie Veness’s story since 2020 is a masterclass in active hope. She has moved from navigating a crisis to architecting a solution. For those of us who followed her journey from that first interview, her rise isn't just a personal success—it’s a blueprint for how South African business can lead the way forward, one fixed pipe and one global council seat at a time. ------------------------------ Grant Adlam www.kzntopbusiness.com The Architect of Resilience: Melanie Veness and the Great Business Fightback

In this webinar, Angela Alderton from Business Sense, along with Brian and Alan from LEMS, delve into the complexities of trusts. They discuss the definition and nature of trusts, contrasting them with companies, and emphasize the contractual aspect involving founders, trustees, and beneficiaries. The conversation highlights the responsibilities and potential liabilities of trustees, stressing the importance of understanding these roles before accepting them. The speakers explore the implications of having trusts in South Africa, especially when beneficiaries become non-residents, and the tax challenges that arise. They discuss recent changes allowing South African trusts to transfer assets to foreign trusts, providing a strategic option for those emigrating. The tax treatment of trusts, including the impact of distributing income to beneficiaries, is examined, with a focus on the complexities introduced by Section 7 of the Tax Act. Charitable trusts receive special mention, with exemptions available under certain conditions. The discussion also touches on the process of closing a trust, the responsibilities of trustees, and the importance of maintaining compliance to avoid penalties. The speakers advise on when it might be beneficial to close a trust, particularly if the assets are not substantial enough to justify the administrative burden. Throughout the session, the importance of a well-drafted trust deed is emphasized, as it dictates the operations and limitations of the trust. The session concludes with insights on the various types of trusts, such as family, charitable, and testamentary trusts, and the unique considerations for each. The overarching message is the necessity of careful management and regular review of trusts to ensure they serve their intended purpose effectively. For more information contact Alan Hockey: +27 (0)71 673 9937 Brian Payne: +27 (0)83-3091982 W: www.lemsystems.co.za

In 2026, the digital landscape is crowded with AI-generated content and noise, making it harder for businesses to stand out online. Barnacle SEO offers a smart way to position your business alongside high-authority platforms, gaining trust and visibility without starting from scratch. KZN Top Business Benefit Programme is a prime example of this strategy, built around a well-established domain with decades of credibility. This post breaks down how the KZN Top Business Benefit Programme works, why it matters, and how your business can benefit from it. Barnacles firmly attached to a pier, symbolizing Barnacle SEO What Is Barnacle SEO and Why It Matters in 2026 Barnacle SEO is a technique where smaller businesses attach themselves to larger, authoritative websites to gain visibility and trust. Instead of competing directly with big players, you "ride their wake" by appearing on their platforms. This approach is especially effective in 2026, when search engines prioritize trust signals and real-world verification amid the flood of AI-generated content. The KZN Top Business Benefit Programme exemplifies this by partnering with a domain established in 1998, which carries 28 years of local credibility. This long-standing authority helps businesses bypass the usual search engine "sandbox" period, where new sites struggle to rank. The Genesis Program Structure and Its Benefits The KZN Top Business Benefit Programme is divided into three tiers, each designed to build on the previous one and increase your business’s online authority and visibility. 1. The List | Visibility and SEO Foundation This is the entry point for businesses looking to establish a verified presence. Technical Reasoning The program creates a NAP (Name, Address, Phone) anchor. Google cross-references this data to confirm your physical location in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). This verification is crucial for local SEO and helps your business appear in relevant local searches. How It Works You visit the site and fill out a simple form listing your business in a hierarchy of the top five leaders in your category. You also list three core products and select your business category. Outcome Your business gains instant inclusion in a high-authority index, benefiting from the domain’s established trust and local relevance. 2. The Connectors Club | Social Proof and Authority This tier adds social proof and humanizes your brand, which builds trust with potential clients. Technical Reasoning API integrations pull in LinkedIn profiles and Google Reviews. This creates a "Trust Loop," showing visitors your verified history, your team’s faces, and real-time social proof in one place. How It Works You upload your company logo and headshots of key personnel. You can also showcase up to 10 products with detailed descriptions. Linking your LinkedIn and Google Reviews increases click-through rates by providing authentic, up-to-date information. Outcome Your business appears more credible and approachable, encouraging potential clients to engage. 3. The Platinum Club | Market Dominance This is the highest tier, reserved for businesses aiming for top search rankings and market leadership. Technical Reasoning Platinum members receive exclusive SEO priority weighting. This means their listings appear at the top of search results, connected to in-depth research and high-level publications. How It Works Membership is selective and not based on payment alone. Businesses must meet strict criteria to qualify, ensuring only the most reputable companies gain this advantage. Outcome Platinum members dominate their market niche online, attracting more traffic and higher-quality leads. Practical Steps to Join KZN Top Business Benefit Programme If you want to leverage Barnacle SEO through KZN Top Business Benefit Programme, here’s how to get started: Step 1: Visit KZN Top Business website and complete the self-service form for The List tier. Provide accurate NAP details and select your business category. Step 2: Upgrade to The Connectors Club by adding your logo, team photos, and linking your LinkedIn and Google Reviews. Prepare detailed descriptions of your products. Step 3: Apply for The Platinum Club if your business meets the criteria. Focus on maintaining a strong online reputation and providing evidence of your market leadership. Why This Approach Works Better Than Traditional SEO Alone Traditional SEO can take months or years to build authority, especially for new businesses. KZN Top Business Benefit Programme’s Barnacle SEO method lets you: Skip the Sandbox Period By associating with a domain established in 1998, your business inherits decades of trust instantly. Build Real-World Trust Signals Verified NAP data, social proof from LinkedIn and Google Reviews, and humanized profiles make your business more trustworthy to both search engines and customers. Gain Priority in Search Results Platinum members enjoy top rankings, which means more visibility and better leads. Real-World Example: A Local KZN Business Success Story Consider a local KZN retailer who joined The List tier last year. Within weeks, their website traffic increased by 35% due to improved local search rankings. After upgrading to The Connectors Club, their click-through rates doubled as customers saw real reviews and team photos. Now, they are applying for The Platinum Club to secure top search positions and expand their market reach. KZN Top Business Benefit Programme

Andrew Clark is the newly appointed managing partner of Cox Yeats Attorneys, based in uMhlanga Ridge, KwaZulu-Natal and which recently opened a Johannesburg branch in Sandton. He is also the head of the maritime, international trade and insurance law team within the firm. Clark matriculated in 1989 from Westville Boys High School. “I had some thoughts about becoming a lawyer at that point of time but didn’t know what it all entailed so I decided to do a BCom degree and see how things went.” During the course of the BCom degree, Clark studied several law subjects in addition to commercial subjects and ultimately moved into law. He then completed articles with Adams and Adams, which is a well-known intellectual property firm. Clark worked in the maritime team in the Durban office and became a partner of the firm in 1999. In 2006 he joined Cox Yeats as partner where he continues to practice maritime and international trade law work, including marine and commercial insurance law. “During my articles I became very interested in maritime law – it is obviously very commercial, with a lot of foreign clients, and the international flavour became part of the passion for this area of the law,” he explained. His interest in insurance law arose out of his involvement in the maritime and logistics sector. Cargo that moves by land, sea or air is insured as are the various parties involved in the contractual supply and logistics chain, including the carriers. “The real challenge that we as attorneys face today is with technological advancement,” says Clark. “We strive to meet our clients’ expectations and needs, which in effect are now on a 24/ 7 basis. You are constantly available to your clients whether it be on WhatsApp, email, or other forms of electronic communication. The effect of that is that the law practice has become much more fast paced and the volumes and scale of work that a practitioner faces these days far outpaces anything that was done ten or fifteen years ago. The busy practitioners tend to be getting their work out quickly and tend to be good at what they do but that leads to more work and so one faces the challenge of balancing your own interests and what you can actually do within a day versus your clients’ expectations.” Consequently, explained Clark, these challenges mean that one has to work very hard in the field of law to achieve success. However, he added that one does need a level of work life balance in order to obtain longevity in the career and to avoid burnout. In reflecting on his recent appointment, Clark commented that he is a people’s person. “I feed on people around me within teams. So, part of my success has been in growing teams of lawyers around me.” He added that the skills relevant to be a leader include the need to be able to communicate well with people. “One needs to be a good listener and understand what people around you are saying.” Of his leadership style he says that his preference is to lead in more of a light touch way. “I am dealing with people around me who are all professionals, who are skilled at their craft and who don’t require a great deal of human management. I think that it is important to lead by example and to understand what the concerns of partners and professionals are. As a leader one needs to make decisions and sometimes those decisions may not be popular, but they have to be made in the greater interest of the firm and the collective. Fortunately, I have the support of the senior professionals around me and my approach to decision making is generally one of a collective nature.” Clark has set firm goals for his own practice and that of the firm. “In terms of my own practice as a team leader, I would like my practice to continue working in the way that it is now over the coming years and to grow and become more dominant in the space that we are in.” His goal for the firm is to continue to move Cox Yeats forward in a positive direction and to fulfil the goals and strategic plans that the partners of the firm have agreed upon. “So that over the coming years the firm continues to grow from strength to strength and continues to do what it has done for a number of years now, which is to punch above its weight and ultimately meet the desired goals, ambitions, and strategy of the collective partnership,” he explained. Clark commented that he is not necessarily inspired by any particular individuals, with the exception of his family, who he says, he draws a great amount of inspiration from. However, he explained that he is in awe of people who struggle to overcome adversity and just make it through their lives on a daily basis. “When I look at people who are successful it is often about how they have reacted to failure or reacted to adversity and overcome that. Even if it is just in their daily lives such as getting to and from a work environment, or in feeding their family. To me there is a lot of inspiration around us that one can see. It does humble one and bring one down to earth.” In giving advice to young professionals Clark says that it would depend on the stage of the career path that they are in. “I would strongly recommend to law students that they get some practical training. Take the time out to do vacation work to learn what it is practically like to be within a law firm working environment. If you pursue your passion, you will be able to get up in the morning and be happy with what you do every day, and it won’t seem like work.”

Introducing the KZN Top Business The List

What is the KZN Top Business List? The KZN Top Business Portfolio is an annual publication—running since 1998—that identifies and profiles the leading companies and organizations driving economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal. It acts as a benchmark for corporate success in the province, often highlighting a "Top 100" tier of businesses across various sectors, from manufacturing and logistics to financial services and ICT. Over the years, the core portfolio has expanded into a broader ecosystem that includes the KZN Top Business Awards (partnered with Standard Bank), the KZN Leaders Portfolio, and dedicated showcases like KZN Top Business Women. Where to Find It The list and its associated profiles are distributed through a highly optimized multi-channel approach: * Primary Website: The most current profiles, lists, and awards criteria are hosted on kzntopbusiness.com. * Digital & Physical Formats: It is published annually as a premium printed book, which is highly sought after for networking, and as a globally accessible electronic flipbook. * Multimedia: The platform maintains an active YouTube channel featuring on-camera interviews with the business leaders who make the list. * News Integration: Regular updates, insights, and regional business news are published through their sister platform, KZN Business Sense (kznbs.com). Why It Performs So Well on AI and Organic Searches The digital dominance of KZN Top Business—where nearly 60% of their web traffic comes from organic search—is not an accident. AI search engines (like Google's AI Overviews) and traditional search algorithms favor platforms that demonstrate deep, authoritative, and structured expertise. Here is why it ranks so highly: 1. Hyper-Local Niche Authority Instead of trying to be a broad, national directory, the platform focuses exclusively on the KZN regional economy. When AI models look for answers to queries like "top construction companies in Durban" or "Durban business leaders," they prioritize sources with the highest concentration of relevant local data. KZN Top Business is the undisputed authority for this specific "entity" data. 2. Decades of Rich, Structured Data AI models train on high-quality text. Because the portfolio has been published for over 25 years, the platform has generated a massive, interconnected archive of well-researched corporate profiles, leadership biographies, and economic history. This wealth of historical and current data makes it a primary reference point for any algorithm synthesizing information about the province's business landscape. 3. The Multimedia Approach Search engines reward platforms that keep users engaged. Through the leadership of figures like Grant Adlam and the publishing team, the platform pairs its written profiles with rich media, such as video interviews and interactive flipbooks. This multimedia integration signals to search algorithms that the content is high-quality and continuously updated. 4. Ecosystem Synergy and Backlinks The platform doesn't exist in isolation. By hosting the KZN Top Business Awards, partnering with major financial institutions, and publishing regular industry updates through KZN Business Sense, the domain generates a constant stream of high-quality backlinks from other reputable corporate and news websites. This creates a feedback loop of domain authority that pushes it to the top of search results. Would you like me to look up the specific criteria required for a company to be nominated for the next KZN Top Business list? Overview of the KZN Top Business Awards 2026 This discussion highlights the recent awards and explains how the platform collaborates with financial institutions to foster regional economic growth and business visibility. https://youtu.be/QnwvhDDVhGA?si=BVdc-TKJ0yGA_7yT YouTube video views will be stored in your YouTube History, and your data will be stored and used by YouTube according to its Terms of Service

Entering the KZN Top Business Awards—often described by Logie Naidoo as the "Oscars of business in KZN" —is a strategic move that goes far beyond winning a trophy. It is a powerful, free-of-charge, three-month journey that acts as a catalyst for brand growth, credibility, and networking, especially for businesses looking to prove they are leading the KZN economy. Here is a fresh take on why entering is brilliant, along with the impact of the journey: 1. The "Oscars" Take: Why Entering is Brilliant Logie Naidoo’s comparison highlights that these awards are the premier showcase for KwaZulu-Natal's business excellence, bringing "glitz and glamour" to recognize hard work and innovation. Zero Financial Risk, High Reward:  Unlike many awards, there is no cost to enter, democratizing the playing field for small to large businesses. Forced Operational Audit:  The entry process forces companies to audit their successes against rigorous standards, including King IV principles, strengthening their internal focus and strategic vision. Prestige & Validation:  Being named a finalist or winner strengthens your position against competitors and builds immediate trust with potential clients. Showcasing "Doing Good":  The awards emphasize that companies should be both profitable and purpose-driven, acknowledging those who contribute to the province’s growth and community. 2. The Journey: Meaning and Impact The "whole journey" is a three-month buildup involving marketing, publicity, and judging that offers continuous value to participants. Elevated Brand Visibility:  From the moment of entry, businesses are featured on KZN Top Business digital and print platforms  and social media. Networking with Decision Makers:  Entrants and winners are connected to a curated network of KZN's top business leaders and investors. Employee Morale Boost:  The recognition validates the hard work of staff, offering them a clear purpose and a sense of pride in their workplace. 3. Concrete Examples of Impact Credibility & Partnerships:  Past winners, such as Shepstone & Wylie  in the Financial and Business Services category, demonstrated that winning helps define the firm's role in the regional economy. Brand Recognition:  SA Home Loans was named the top brand in 2025, validating their market position. Celebrating Leadership:  The awards highlight leaders like Brian Howarth (Magnet)  and Nosipho Siwisa-Damasane (WOA) , which strengthens their company’s reputation as industry pioneers. Social Impact Recognition:  The Community Upliftment category  validates companies that prioritize giving back, such as past winners SmartXchange , providing them with a platform to showcase their social impact. The KZN Top Business Awards 2026  are currently open, with winners announced at a gala dinner on 16 July 2026 . Celebrating Leadership: The awards highlight leader, Brian Howarth (Magnet) [2] https://www.youtube.com [3] https://www.kznbs.com [5] https://www.youtube.com [6] https://www.kzntopbusiness.com [9] https://www.topchoiceawards.com [11] https://www.kzntopbusiness.com [12] https://www.wylie.co.za

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones, and in Durban, SA Home Loans  helps make that dream a reality. But a home is more than just a property—it’s where families grow, memories are made, and a sense of belonging takes root. Our recent campaign celebrated this emotional side of homeownership. We featured three real family homes of our staff members, each from different cultural backgrounds, showcasing their unique traditions, lifestyles, and ways of connecting. While the homes differed in design and size, the story inside each was the same: home is where life unfolds, generations connect, and stories are shared. SA Home Loans  provides Durban residents with the financial support to secure their ideal homes, whether it’s a first-time purchase, an upgrade, or an investment. With tailored home loan solutions, they make the process of owning a home accessible and manageable, allowing families to focus on what really matters—the life they build inside those walls. Beyond financing, initiatives like Shining Schools  show how the company invests in communities, reflecting the broader idea that home isn’t just a building—it’s a network of people, support, and shared experiences. With SA Home Loans Durban , owning a home isn’t just about a transaction—it’s about creating a space where you feel safe, connected, and truly at home. Because at the heart of every Durban home is the simple truth: it’s not just the house that matters—it’s the life inside it. Contact SA Home Loans Durban: Website:   www.sahomeloans.co.za Phone:  031 572 0500 Address:  4th Floor, Protea Place, 60 Umgeni Road, Durban, South Africa SA Home Loans Durban: More Than a Mortgage, a Place to Call Home

Pretoria, the country’s administrative capital and diplomatic hub, sits within the economic powerhouse of South Africa, attracting key decision-makers and leaders from across the globe. With business travel central to this growing economy, The Beekman Group has officially launched Menlyn Mix, its latest urban hospitality development in Pretoria’s vibrant Menlyn precinct.   “Menlyn Mix is really a strategic evolution of our hospitality portfolio,” says Wayne Beekman, Director at the Beekman Group. “For over five decades, we’ve built trusted destinations across bush, beach, and berg environments. With Menlyn Mix, we’re extending that same operational discipline and guest-focused approach into an urban business hub, providing our professional guests with accommodation that allows them to work while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of a mixed-use environment.”   Situated just minutes from Menlyn Maine – the heartbeat of Pretoria – guests staying at Menlyn Mix will find themselves at the centre of Pretoria’s business and retail corridor. Boasting modern self-catering apartments, integrated meeting infrastructure and lifestyle amenities, Menlyn Mix has been designed to meet the growing demand for bleisure experiences.   What Can You Expect from Menlyn Mix?   Pretoria continues to cement its role as a key MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and events) destination, hosting corporate events, government engagements and exhibitions at nearby venues such as SunBet Arena and Time Square Casino. Menlyn Mix is ideally positioned and purpose-built to support business travellers with:   ·     Dedicated business hub and flexible meeting rooms ·    Reliable backup power systems and water tanks ·     High-speed internet access ·     Secure on-site parking ·     Temperature-controlled swimming pool ·     Rooftop garden and adventure golf ·     Fully equipped gym and rooftop yoga ·     Clubhouse and chill zones ·     Self-service guest laundry ·     On-site barista coffee   Each self-catering apartment includes contemporary design with practical amenities, including air conditioning, WiFi, selected DSTV channels and braai facilities. Spacious layouts allow business travellers to work comfortably while enjoying the flexibility needed for extended stays.   Menlyn Mix: The Ultimate Bleisure Destination   The location and design allow guests to transition conveniently from meetings to downtime. After hours, guests can explore nearby attractions, including The Barnyard Theatre, Faerie Glen Nature Reserve, Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Hartebeespoort Dam, and the iconic Union Buildings.   For those hosting clients at sporting events, Menlyn Mix provides easy access to the nearby Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Its proximity to Menlyn Maine Central Square also ensures guests enjoy retail, dining, and urban entertainment that appeal to local and international travellers.   “We continue to provide guests with a premium leisure accommodation, and we’re now extending this established and highly effective model into the corporate sector,” continues Beekman. “We’re excited to provide our business travellers with reliable, scalable accommodation solutions in Pretoria that meet every need.”   Menlyn Mix FAQs   Menlyn Mix addresses common corporate travel considerations with practical solutions:   Q: Does Menlyn Mix have reliable WiFi and backup power? Yes. High-speed internet access, supplementary power systems support daily operations, helping to reduce reliance on grid electricity, as well as water storage ensure uninterrupted connectivity and comfort.   Q: Is there meeting space on-site? Dedicated business hubs and meeting rooms allow teams to collaborate without leaving the property.   Q: Is it suitable for extended stays? Spacious apartments, self-catering amenities and laundry facilities make it ideal for longer project-based visits.   Q: Where is Menlyn Mix based? 60 Kelvin Street, Lynwood Glen, Pretoria, 0081   The Beekman Group is a multi-award-winning, family-run organisation with a portfolio of leading destinations, including Cayley Mountain Resort (the only beach in the Berg!), The Kingdom Resort, San Martinho Beach Club and Dikhololo Resort. Its properties have been consistently recognised at the World Travel Awards, including multiple wins for South Africa’s Leading Lifestyle Resort and Leading Family Resort, as well as Mozambique’s Leading Family Resort, reinforcing the Group’s reputation for delivering high-quality holiday experiences at scale.   For bookings and corporate enquiries, visit www.menlynmix.co.za | Call 0861 269 846 | Email bookings@beekmanholidays.co.za . Launch of Menlyn Mix in Pretoria Redefines ‘Business-Meets-Leisure’ Accommodation

Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ) continues to strengthen its position as a key driver of economic growth, investment, and innovation in South Africa. As outlined in its latest newsletter, the organisation is making significant strides across infrastructure development, agriculture, sustainability, and enterprise support—reinforcing its role as a catalyst for regional and national progress. Strong Growth and Strategic Expansion More than 60% of Dube TradeZone 2 has already been secured by new industrial investors, reflecting strong confidence in the SEZ’s world-class infrastructure, reliable utilities, and efficient logistics network. The zone has also seen major expansions from established companies such as Mahindra SA, Yangtze Optic Fibre, and Lil Masters, all of which have doubled their operational footprints within the precinct over the past 18 months. In response to growing demand, plans are underway to introduce new midi factories tailored to specialised light industrial needs. At the same time, the organisation is preparing to launch the second phase of Dube AgriZone, further unlocking opportunities in the agricultural sector. CEO Hamish Erskine highlighted that these developments position Dube TradePort as a platform for long-term investment and scalable growth across Africa. Unlocking Agricultural Potential with Dube AgriZone 2 A major highlight is the upcoming launch of Dube AgriZone 2—an 18-hectare, fully serviced, agriculture-focused development designed to empower small-scale farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and horticulturists. The initiative directly addresses longstanding challenges faced by farmers, including limited access to infrastructure, unreliable utilities, and restricted market access. By providing modern facilities such as pack houses, cold storage, logistics support, and direct export access via the Dube Cargo Terminal, AgriZone 2 enables smaller producers to participate in high-value supply chains. With development-ready sites ranging from 10,500m² to 30,000m², the project offers scalable solutions for businesses looking to grow. This expansion builds on the success of the existing AgriZone, where produce valued at over R50 million was grown or handled in the past year alone. Driving Inclusive Growth Through Procurement Dube TradePort is also advancing economic inclusion through a transparent and accessible procurement system, with a strong focus on supporting Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Businesses are encouraged to register on the National Treasury’s Central Supplier Database (CSD) and maintain full compliance to access opportunities. Procurement processes are divided into Requests for Quotation (RFQs) for contracts under R1 million and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for larger tenders, which are publicly advertised. Beyond procurement, the organisation actively supports supplier growth through enterprise development programmes and regular supplier forums, providing training, guidance, and direct engagement opportunities. Commitment to Sustainability and Biodiversity Sustainability remains central to Dube TradePort’s operations. The precinct has made notable progress in environmental conservation, particularly in protecting the critically endangered Pickersgill’s Reed Frog through partnerships with the Endangered Wildlife Trust and Airports Company South Africa. Efforts include the establishment of 55 monitoring sites, wetland restoration projects, and the use of advanced technologies such as GIS systems, satellite data, and drones to track environmental changes. These initiatives not only protect biodiversity but also create employment opportunities through rehabilitation projects. Recognition, Governance, and Leadership Dube TradePort’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its governance track record, having achieved 13 consecutive years of unqualified audits and receiving recognition from the Auditor-General of South Africa and the PFMA Clean Audit Awards. The organisation has also strengthened its leadership with the appointment of new executives and board members, including industry experts in property development, law, and corporate governance, ensuring continued strategic direction and oversight. Innovation in Operations and Infrastructure To support its rapid growth, Dube TradePort is enhancing its asset management and operational systems. This includes addressing maintenance backlogs, improving infrastructure reliability, and implementing modern, predictive asset management aligned with ISO 55000 standards. Digital tools such as Building Management Systems and advanced monitoring technologies are being introduced to improve efficiency and support long-term sustainability across the precinct. Supporting Enterprise Success and Industry Innovation The SEZ continues to foster innovation within its ecosystem, highlighted by the success of KCM Environmental, which was named runner-up at the 2025 Durban Chemicals Cluster Dragons’ Den. The company’s achievement underscores the growing impact of small and medium enterprises within industrial supply chains. A Platform for Future Growth As infrastructure upgrades across key transport corridors and port operations enhance regional efficiency, Durban is increasingly positioned as a leading manufacturing and logistics hub in Africa. Dube TradePort’s integrated approach—combining infrastructure development, agricultural expansion, environmental stewardship, and enterprise support—demonstrates its commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive economy. With a clear vision and sustained momentum, the organisation continues to create opportunities for investors, businesses, and communities alike, truly enabling growth beyond potential. Read the full Newsletter here: Dube TradePort Drives Growth, Inclusion, and Innovation in Latest Developments

The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC welcomes the reduction of the fuel levy by R3 per litre, announced with the fuel price increase set to take effect tomorrow, 1 April 2026. This escalation is driven by the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.  As organsied business, we fully support measures such as the reduction of the fuel levy and, where feasible, the implementation of flexible working hours for staff, as we believe these interventions can provide temporary relief and act as a buffer until comprehensive crisis management plans are established. The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC believes that South Africa’s heavy dependence on imported crude oil leaves us vulnerable to immediate fuel price hikes driven by global crude volatility. Whilst we acknowledge the reduction in the fuel levy, the impact on business is still devastating, as petrol is used across all sectors, not only in transport. The agriculture sector is exposed through both fuel and the broader value chain, manufacturing is directly affected, and public transport costs will rise; consumers will inevitably face increased prices. Durban, known for its large logistics sector, is particularly vulnerable. Fuel increases magnify the impact here, turning it into a broader economic challenge that affects trade. The ripple effects will spread across industries, directly raising the cost of imports and exports and undermining South Africa’s competitiveness. At a time when businesses are striving to recover from economic pressures, rising fuel costs compounded by the impact of the war place an undue burden on all enterprises. While large businesses may absorb the shock, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), already struggling to make ends meet, are bearing the brunt. For many, this could even lead to closure. This situation has created significant uncertainty, with expectations that inflation will rise, driven by increasing fuel costs, electricity costs, and transport expenses, while salaries remain stagnant. As a result, consumers and businesses are burdened with reduced purchasing power, further straining households and businesses, which is not economically sustainable for livelihoods. The consequences for business confidence and investment into both Durban and South Africa are severe. We are already witnessing panic buying and fuel shortages, which only magnify the pressure on supply chains and consumer sentiment. As organised business, we believe that South Africa alone cannot withstand the full impact should the war continue. We urgently require a clear plan from government outlining how the country will navigate this crisis. Decisive action and clarity are essential to restore confidence and provide transparency on what buffers are in place to protect both government and citizens. SOUTH AFRICA’S FUEL PRICE CRISIS