Constructing future growth opportunities: the potential of the civil engineering and construction works sector

Abstract

This discussion paper is a precursor to a fuller study which will attempt to quantify the potential of the construction export sector for South Africa and the requirements necessary to achieve this potential. In this paper we present our work to date in a summarised fashion, consider the experiences of other countries who have followed this route and raise a variety of concerns regarding the domestic market, the external environment and the institutional requirements necessary to navigate this potential course successfully. The purpose of the paper is to provoke discussion on how we view the construction sector and how changing this perspective may lead to an increased contribution of the sector to GDP growth and employment in a sustainable manner.