Vaal SEZ designation proposal now open for public scrutiny

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Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has published a 30-day notice, inviting public comment on the proposed designation of the Vaal Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

Gauteng’s finance department proposed the Vaal Special Economic Zone (SEZ) designation to the dtic in April 2025, following Section 23 of the SEZ Act No. 16 of 2014.

The proposed SEZ development will be undertaken on land parcels identified in all three local municipalities in the Sedibeng District, amounting to a total of 817ha in extent.

The Vaal SEZ prioritises market demand by focusing on renewable energy component manufacturing and a green hydrogen hub featuring fuel cell production capabilities.

It also incorporates green steel production, agro-processing encompassing cannabis, and trade/agro zones connected to Heidelberg Airport.

Furthermore, the SEZ supports a variety of other industries, including electronics, aerospace, aviation, logistics, and general manufacturing endeavours.

The department stated that the proposed Vaal SEZ has managed to build a compellingly strong investor pipeline.

“This clearly portends an unserved market demand for world-class industrial infrastructure investment in the district. In addition, the proposed SEZ already has priority investors, who are ready to break ground in the 2026/27 financial year.

R4 billion expected contribution of Vaal SEZ

“Investment in the proposed Vaal SEZ is anticipated to significantly enhance employment prospects in the region throughout both the construction and operational phases.

“The expected contribution of the Vaal SEZ development to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to be R4 billion in Phase I and R10.773 billion once fully developed.

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“During the construction period in Phase I, the project is expected to create about 4 302 direct jobs and 1 305 indirect jobs. An additional 5 902 direct jobs will be created during the operational stage,” the statement read.

The DTIC will hold a public hearing this month, with the location announced soon. The public can submit written comments via email to SEZEquiries@thedtic.gov.za by April 20, 2026.

The gazette notice is available online.