The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Alexandra Abrahams, today visited Balancell, a Cape Town-based battery technology company, as part of ongoing efforts to identify practical measures that can support business growth, strengthen advanced manufacturing and expand South Africa’s participation in emerging global industries.
The visit formed part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (the dtic) broader programme of engagement with businesses that are developing innovative products, creating jobs and contributing to South Africa’s industrial competitiveness.
Balancell designs and manufactures advanced lithium-ion battery systems for applications across the electric mobility, mining and industrial sectors. The company’s technologies are being deployed in South Africa and exported into international markets, demonstrating the potential for locally developed innovation to compete globally.
During the visit, Abrahams toured the company’s facilities and engaged with management on opportunities to expand production, deepen local value addition and unlock further export opportunities. Discussions also focused on the policy and regulatory environment required to support the growth of innovative South African manufacturers operating in highly competitive global markets.
The engagement focused on the practical constraints and opportunities affecting the company’s ability to scale its operations, commercialise new technologies and expand into additional export markets. Particular attention was given to measures that could improve the operating environment for high-growth manufacturing firms and support greater private sector investment.
“Balancell represents the kind of innovation and industrial capability that South Africa needs to support and celebrate. It is encouraging to see a locally developed company producing world-class battery technologies and creating solutions that are finding application both locally and internationally,” said Abrahams.
The visit formed part of the Abrahams’ commitment to ensuring that government remains responsive to the challenges faced by South African businesses. By engaging directly with industry leaders, the dtic is able to identify barriers to investment and growth, while exploring practical solutions that can strengthen competitiveness and support job creation.
Among the issues discussed were matters relating to the commercialisation of new technologies, access to testing and certification processes, and creating an environment that enables innovative South African companies to compete effectively in domestic and international markets.
“One of the most valuable aspects of visits such as these is the opportunity to hear directly from businesses about both their successes and the challenges they encounter. This allows government to better understand where support may be required and how we can work with stakeholders to unlock opportunities for growth and investment,” she said.
Abrahams welcomed the progress made by Balancell and noted the company’s contribution to local manufacturing, innovation and skills development.
“What we have seen today demonstrates that South African companies have the talent, expertise and determination to develop advanced technologies that can compete globally. Balancell’s achievements are a testament to the innovative potential that exists within our economy,” she added.
the dtic will continue engaging with businesses across the country to identify obstacles to investment, support enterprise growth and create conditions that enable South African firms to compete successfully in domestic and international markets. These engagements form part of government’s broader efforts to accelerate economic growth, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
Tel: (012) 394 1643
Mobile: 079 5083 457
WhatsApp: 074 2998 512
E-mail: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
Follow us on X: @the_dtic
https://www.facebook.com/thedti?mibextid=ZbWKwL
https://www.youtube.com/@thedtic
Share this:
