The Western Cape is powered by a dynamic services economy, contributing over 70% to provincial GVA between 2019 and 2024. The province offers a cost-effective, innovation-led environment backed by a skilled workforce.
At its core is Cape Town – a gateway to opportunities in South Africa and the African continent. With world-class infrastructure, deep talent pools, and a pro-business ecosystem, the city is a launchpad for growth into Africa, Europe, and beyond. As global services exports hit US$6.1 trillion in 2021, the Western Cape is primed for growth offering investors a cost effective advantage and strategic time zone.
Key segments include:
Business Services
Encompassing financial services, contact centres, back-office operations, accounting, and HR outsourcing.
Education
Rising demand for quality education is driving infrastructure growth and a vibrant ed-tech ecosystem, making the province a hub for educational innovation.
Creative Industries
Cape Town is a creative capital, home to the world-class Cape Town Film Studios and internationally acclaimed animation and design talent.
Data Centres
Boasting modern infrastructure, five undersea cables, and investments from technology firms, the Western Cape is an ideal location for data centre development.
IT Services
Backed by a deep talent pool, fast and reliable internet, and a thriving innovation landscape, the province is a growing destination for IT services.
Why Cape Town & the Western Cape
1. Cost-Effective Advantage
The region offers significant cost savings compared to global cities like London or New York, with more affordable labour and real estate without compromising on world-class quality.
2. Highly Skilled, English-Speaking Workforce
Direct maritime access to Europe, Asia, and the Americas via the Port of Cape Town, with integrated road and rail links to SACU, SADC,& AfCFTA markets, plus high-frequency logistics supporting agriculture, manufacturing, and the green economy.
3. Strategic Time Zone (GMT+2)
Cape Town’s time zone enables real-time collaboration with Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for global business operations.
4. World-Class Infrastructure & Connectivity
Five undersea cables (including Equiano, WACS, and 2Africa) guarantee fast, reliable internet. Cloud regions from AWS, Microsoft, and Oracle, plus 99% 4G coverage, support seamless digital operations.
5. Gateway to Africa & Global Markets
Cape Town International Airport connects directly to major global hubs (London, Dubai, New York), while its strategic location offers easy access to African, European, and Middle Eastern markets.
6. Thriving Ecosystem
Home to global giants like Accenture, Amazon, PwC, EXL, and Outworx, the Western Cape leads South Africa in BPO operations, innovation, and tech hubs, accelerators, and coworking spaces.
7. Strong Financial & Regulatory Framework
A major financial hub with a robust legal system based on international best practices, ensuring investor protection and intellectual property rights.
8. Business Support & Networking
The Western Cape, a key logistics hub for cross-border movement, warehousing, and value-added services, is set to benefit from the AfCFTA, which will open access to a US$ 3.4 trillion market.
9. Stable & Business-Friendly Government
Predictable regulations, efficient governance, and a commitment to the rule of law provide long-term investment security.
10. Incentives
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