R100 BILLION INVESTMENT SECURED BY FREE STATE

Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae

By: Neo Ntsele

In her 2026 State of the Province Address (SOPA), Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae highlighted the crucial role of attracting investment to boost the provincial economy, generate employment, and enhance the quality of life for Free State residents.

To further these efforts, the Premier led a provincial delegation to the People’s Republic of China.

This investment mission secured a R100 billion investment for the Free State.

This investment is expected to significantly energise the provincial economy, create both direct and indirect jobs, bolster the Free State’s standing in South Africa’s automotive manufacturing sector, and enhance skills development and technical training opportunities for local communities.

The project will enhance the province's manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain industries, providing significant economic benefits to local businesses.

The investment will establish the Free State as a national center for renewable energy mobility and electric vehicle manufacturing, aiding South Africa's transition to a green economy.

The R100 billion investment will greatly boost the Free State economy and generate over 6000 direct and indirect job opportunities.

It will create employment opportunities for qualified engineers, technicians, artisans, and other specialised professionals.

Additionally, it will support broader industrial skills development.

The investment will offer extensive skills development and technical training opportunities for local communities, preparing a workforce ready for the future.

It will position the Free State as a significant player in South Africa's automotive manufacturing industry, especially in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market.

It will unlock new investment opportunities, industrial growth, and export potential, diversifying the provincial economy and enhancing long-term economic resilience.

More than 2000 electric vehicle technicians will receive internationally recognised training and certification, strengthening the province's technical and industrial capabilities.

The project will emphasise the strategic importance of the Maluti-A-Phofung Special Economic Zone (MAPS-SEZ) as a driver for industrialisation, advanced manufacturing, and investment attraction.