SCC Insider - Edition 2

EDITION 2 DECEMBER 2022

SCC INSIDER BRIDGING SPANISH AND SOUTH AFRICAN BUSINESSES AND INSTITUTIONS.

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

BOOK A FREE COFFEE MEETING WITH US! marketing@spaincc.org

C O N T E N T

PRESIDENT'S NOTE

4

WELCOME TO NEW

6

MEMBERS

NEWS AND INSIGHTS

8

EVENTS

28

RESEARCH

30

Disclaimer: Articles written and published do not all reflect the perspective of the Chamber, but that of the authors.

-3-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA PRESIDENT'S NOTE

PAGE 4

Mr. Marcos Pelegrin President of the SCC in South Africa

Dear SCC Members and Friends of the Chamber, As 2022 comes to an end – I take some time to reflect what has transpired during the last couple of years and how it has impacted and continues to impact all our lives.

The SCC could not be more excited about the role we have been playing and continue to do so for our community.

Our mission remains the same – to advocate on your behalf and to be the voice of business and support you. Part of being that means understanding the economic drivers that are critical to a healthy economy and working with the leaders to make that a reality for all businesses.

The pandemic proved to our members the importance of having an entity (SCC RSA) to advocate on their behalf. We played a critical role in ensuring your voice was heard and that those taking the decisions understood the individual challenges and assisted the businesses to succeed during the pandemic and continue to do so towards recovery.

I firmly believe that 2022 has been a challenging but very important year for the Chamber, after several management changes, we are ending the year stronger than ever. We have enjoyed the largest staff contingent that the Chamber has ever had and that has helped us to deliver a total of 24 activities to our esteemed members, even participating at the Spanish President visit to South Africa in October.

The Spanish community is relatively small in South Africa, however alongside the Spanish Embassy and the Economic and Commercial office, we are striving to meet the community’s needs in their respective business requirements.

None of us know what 2023 will bring, but we do know that we are well positioned to provide the necessary assistance that you, our members and the community may require.

The year 2022 was not the panacea we were all hoping for, however we made a lot of strides and implemented best practices that are helping our members and the community to move forward.

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SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA PRESIDENT'S NOTE

PAGE 5

Looking Forward, Never Back Our main priorities through 2023 are: Business Strong - Creating an environment to further support our members while their businesses thrive.

Chamber Strong – Creating a stronger and more sustainable Chamber.

A strong economic environment requires a strong community. We are truly fortunate to have leaders, business owners, educators, and citizens who realize that we all share the responsibility of creating economic success and contentment within our community.

As the Chamber‘s President, I am thrilled to work alongside our dedicated Board and SCC Team. It is comprised of members who share the same vision for business growth, and I thank them for their support during this year.

We are facing a continuously challenging economic era, filled with uncertainty and doubt. However, this is also a time of opportunity – a chance to become more agile and align your business with customer needs in new ways. These are the times when new, adaptive and creative ways of doing business are born!

A special word of thanks to all the Spanish interns who are completing their tenure with us (Javier Cortes Huertas, Javier Arenas Merino, Jokin Bilbao Galarza, and Francisco Moreton Diez) who adapted very well to the South African business community and offered their knowledge, skills, and expertise to the growth of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA in the year 2022. We wish them well for their future endeavours in their respective careers. I cannot conclude this section without also thanking the rest of the team (Priority Shikwambana and Manuela Sanchez Aragú) who work tirelessly to support your businesses and the Chamber. I take this opportunity of wishing all of you and your loved ones well over the festive season and I look forward to supporting all of you in 2023.

Marcos Pelegrin President of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA

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SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS

PAGE 6

“Collaboration gives the freedom to come out from the narrow scopes of life to the field of endless possibilities.” - Amit Ray The Spanish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the companies that have joined the Chamber as members in the past few months. The Chamber is proud to have these companies in their respective industries as part of the extended SCC Family, and will strive towards building stronger relations between Spain and South Africa.

Áh! by Pablo Corroto Pradillo, is an international practice operating within the traditional boundaries of architecture and urbanism. A research and design studio which applies architectural thinking of advanced ecological structures to domains beyond.

Architecture, Project Design and Consulting are for us a means of investigating the development of cultures, influencing social behaviour whilst giving superior emphasis on detailed excellence on the engineering and functionality component of its application.

PORCELANOSA Group is a holding company, and leading manufacturer of ceramic products, kitchen and bathroom furniture, as well as architectural solutions ranging from ventilated façades to ceramic installation materials. Through product diversification, its eight firms have succeeded in expanding the firm throughout Europe, North America, Asia, and Latin America.

Windtechnic Engineering SL is specialized in design, certification, and construction of precast concrete towers for the wind energy sector.

Its main goal is to support and boost local content by expanding the use of precast concrete structures all over the world.

Windtechnic was founded in 2013 to bring the know-how developed by its mother company, NORTEN EOLICA (Spanish precaster involved in wind since 2005), worldwide.

Since its creation, Windtechnic has been present in the South African market, collaborating in the success of several wind farms.

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SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

SPAIN-SOUTH FORUM

PAGE 8

AFRICA

BUSINESS

Jokin Bilbao Galarza | International Trade Advisor Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce in RSA Pedro Sánchez announces the availability of up to 2,115 million euros to support Spanish investment in South Africa.

On 27 October, the Spain-South Africa Business Forum, organised by the Embassy of Spain and the Economic and Commercial Office, was held in Pretoria.

This

forum

had

the

presence

of

President of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism of the Government of Spain, Reyes Maroto, as well as the South African counterpart, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel.

Pedro Sánchez's official visit to South Africa is framed in an international context in which the European

Union

has

emphasized

the

need

to

Subsequently,

bolster relations between Europe and Africa, as it becomes

a

continent

of

growing

four

Understanding

geostrategic

have

Memorandum been

signed:

of

three

on

Industry 4.0, national libraries, and sport; and a

importance globally.

fourth between COFIDES and its South African counterpart,

IDC

(Industrial

Development

Corporation), to strengthen their cooperation and invest in projects promoted by the private sector in

various

industries,

particularly

those

contributing to a Just Energy Transition, Water, Infrastructure, Automotive and Agribusiness.

In order to support these investments, exports and projects for Spanish companies, President Pedro Sánchez announced a financial package of up to 2,115 million euros over the next five years, through

the

various

Spanish

public

financial

instruments (FIEM, Cesce and COFIDES funds).

Spain aims to re-establish a solid alliance with African countries to face the contemporary global

For his part, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed

challenges, such as the climate emergency, the

his country's need to continue exporting mining

energy transition, the technological revolution,

equipment

food security, migratory movements, and the fight

manufacturing,

against terrorism.

pharmaceuticals, agricultural products and food

and

processing equipment.

-8-

technologies,

alternative

energy

advanced equipment,

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

Regarding

the

energy

PAGE 9

sector,

President

Ramaphosa highlighted several measures taken by the

South

regulatory

African reform

to

government, liberalise

including

the

a

electricity

generation market, to make it more competitive and

to

attract

private

sector

investments.

Furthermore, the country is also undertaking farreaching reforms in other network industries, such as telecommunications, ports and railways, and water infrastructure.

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA is looking forward to being part of the journey to further deepen

bilateral

relations

between

the

two

countries.

-9-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 10

OPENING THE EASTERN CAPE TO THE WORLD Jules Shefer | Relationship Executive, Global Corporates at Absa CIB The Eastern Cape sits at the gateway between Africa and the rest of the world. For Absa CIB’s Eastern Cape regional team, that means creating locally relevant solutions with a global outlook.

Local meets global

Do not be fooled by the Eastern Cape’s smalltown reputation. The region’s two major ports – Gqeberha’s harbour and the deep-water Port of Ngqura – are gateways for expanding markets, linking major global players to a vibrant local supply chain.

imports,

food,

pharmaceuticals…,”

beverage

says

Jules

and Shefer,

Relationship Executive in the Global Corporate Coverage team at Absa CIB, running off a list of diverse industries. “And when you have these larger-sized businesses, you need an adequate support

structure.

Their

supplier

bases

are

globally appointed but with a local presence, so that they have less risk from a supply chain perspective.”

into Africa, clients have to invest in a great deal of research around the various regulatory and economic environments. “As a strategic, longpartner,

macroeconomic

we

provide

research

on

up-to-date our

presence

countries, as well as on-the-ground assistance with

exchange

CIB’s

Global

Corporate

(GC)

relationship

model, which covers both the local subsidiaries as client-led organisation, we are centre-enabled, having the capability to service our clients in the region through support and enablement from the Centre across product coverage and operations, to deliver solutions regionally,” says Shefer. “This gives us the ability to be more responsive and accountable through our active engagement with our GC clients locally and at an HQ Treasury level.”

That enables distributed leadership, where Shefer and her Eastern Cape regional colleagues can

She adds that, in order to undertake investment

term

Absa

well as their global parents. “While we are a

“We have a lot of agriculture, automotive exports and

That blend of local and global relations reflects

control

applications,” she says.

and

other

regulatory

provide tailor-made solutions for those clients, knowing that they have the in-house expertise to deliver. “We have a relationship model with a single point of contact, so if I see a client and they require, for example, asset finance or trade finance, when I get back to the office, I’ll bring in the

relevant

specialist

and

we’ll

prepare

an

application,” she says.

All of that is underpinned by deeply entrenched, long-term client relationships – many of which span decades. “We’ve retained those relationships by remaining relevant,” says Shefer, “and we’ve remained relevant through ongoing engagement, knowing

what

understanding

our their

clients’

requirements

challenges

and

solutions to meet those requirements.”

-10-

are,

tailoring

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 11

Client-led solutions

It also comes with the years of experience that one finds in smaller areas like the Eastern Cape, where the regional team has a wealth of local, onthe-ground experience. “We are like a family,” says

Shefer.

“My

Portfolio

Manager,

Janine

Benjamin and I have been working together for more than 20 years, and our Trade Specialist Azeeza Abrahams has been with the bank for as long

as

I

can

remember.

experience is quite incredible.”

Our

combined

This extensive experience has enabled the team to offer innovative solutions to the supply chain issues – related to the COVID-19 crisis and to the war in Ukraine – that have affected clients in the Eastern Cape.

“We have been able to assist our clients manage these challenges by providing tailored working capital solutions and commodity hedges,” says Shefer. “Load shedding is another challenge, with many of our clients looking for alternative energy sources. We can assist them here as well – not only from a term funding perspective, but from an environmental, social and governance perspective as well. We need to make sure that we are lending responsibly and that our funds are not going to be used to harm the environment or create social injustices in any way.”

And – as in Absa’s other Coastal Regions – Shefer and

the

Eastern

Cape

team

are

focused

on

working with clients to provide solutions that align with their clients’ specific needs, and that work best in their unique part of the world.

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SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 12

WATER SECURITY & RENEWABLE ENERGY CONFERENCE 2022 Priority Shikwambana | International Trade Officer Intern at Spanish Chamber of Commerce in RSA Energy sector

On the occasion of the Conference on Water Security and Sustainable Renewable Energy 2022 which was held on 3 November, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of South Africa, in partnership with Nedbank, gathered industry leaders in the public and private sector, to identify the opportunities to work towards a future

of

Water

Security

and

Sustainable

Renewable Energy.

For the main address, the Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Spanish Embassy Commercial

Office

in

South

Africa,

Mr

Isaac

Martín-Barbero acknowledged Spain as one of the leading

countries

in

sustainable

renewable

energy, as the scarcity of raw materials needed for power generation serves as an encouragement for the country to be constantly innovative in the industry. Spain prioritizes ecological transition, proof of which is the high employability (60,000 employees) in the water and energy sectors. After Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s recent visit

to

South

Africa,

the

two

countries

are

delighted to embark on a journey of partnership in sustainability, as revealed in the announcement of a financial package of up to 2,115 million euros from Spain into South Africa to boost climate proof investments over the next 5 years.

Mr Amos Hadebe, Executive Head in Group Stakeholder Relations and Public Affairs at Nedbank, Ms Manuela Sánchez Aragú, General Manager at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce RSA, Elelwani Pandelani, Head of Non Resident & Embassy Banking at Nedbank, and Katleho Mogase, Public Affairs Manager at Nedbank.

Mr

Isaac

M a r t í n - B a r b e r o,

Chief

Economic

and

Counsellor of the Spanish Embassy-Commercial Office

Mr Marcos Pelegrin, President of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce R S A , M r I s a a c M a r t í n - B a r b e r o, C h i e f E c o n o m i c a n d C o m m e r c i a l Counsellor of the Spanish Embassy-Commercial Office, Ms Manuela Sánchez Aragú and Mr Amos Hadebe.

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Commercial

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

From

a

FDI

Investment InvestSA

perspective, Promotion

and

the

PAGE 13

Deputy

(Green

Department

Director

Economy) of

Trade

of of and

Industry of the Republic of South Africa (the dtic), Mr Cobs Pillay, reiterates that the dtic as well as InvestSA

always

aim

to

assist

with

broad

challenges that may restrict or delay potential investment

in

South

Africa.

The

Department

encouraged Spain to compete in the growing industry of Sustainable Renewable Energy, as the need for investment in this sector is rapidly emerging in South Africa, which offers plenty of room for growth for both countries.

Mr Brendon van Niekerk, Co-Author of “Barriers and opportunities for water reuse PPPs in South Africa” and Senior Consultant.

From a Water Security Management perspective, Ms Arantxa Mencia, Vice President and Managing Director of Global Business Development of Almar Water

Solutions,

as

well

as

Mr

Luis

Blanco,

Director of Almar Water Solutions in South Africa, reiterated that water is an increasingly scarce commodity. Hence, it is essential for both private and public investment to work hand in hand to address the emerging global challenges, both in water Mr Cobs Pillay, Deputy Director of Investment Promotion (Green Economy) of InvestSA and the dtic.

Co-Author

of

“Barriers

and

and

water

desalination.

Therefore, Almar Water works to ensure that the entire world population has access to this vital resource

Water sector

recycling

and

aims

partnerships

with

establish

more

a

to

local

invest entities

efficient

way

in in to

healthy order

to

execute

projects.

opportunities

for

water reuse Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in South Africa” and Senior Consultant, Mr Brendon van Niekerk, outlined the risk of water shortages in South Africa. It is foreseen that by 2030 the country will face a 17% deficit due to various reasons such as inefficient use, inappropriate infrastructure, the lack of maintenance of the existing

infrastructure,

water

leakage

losses,

among others. Mr Van Niekerk recommended the need for PPP legislation, as the challenges faced can

be

addressed

through

private

financing.

Moreover, greater governmental stability between the

different

training

are

governmental recommended

levels to

and

speed

up

more

Mr Luis Blanco, Director of Almar Water Solutions in South Africa.

the

approval of projects.

-13-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 14

Conclusions

In the breakaway sessions, Senior Project Advisor in Municipal Desk Transaction Advisory Service and PPP Unit at Government Technical Advisory

The

(GTAC),

insightful

Mr

Themba

Mdletshe

addressed

the

event

ended

with

panel

a

constructive

discussion

which

and was

status of the South African Infrastructure in the

spearheaded by Mr Thiago Almeida (Sector Lead:

Water and Renewable Energy Sectors, with a clear

Power

statement

deserves

engaged by Mr Sean Phillips (Director General of

government.

the Department of Water and Sanitation), Mr

Planning

Zakhele Mayisa (Head of Infrastructure, Water &

clear

that

social

attention

Infrastructure

infrastructure

from

the

Management

and

is

and

Infrastructure

at

Nedbank)

and

decentralized. Therefore, each sector is focused

Telecom

on its own interests with no common strategy.

Mdletshe (Senior Project Advisor in Municipal

Project planning in many cases is non-existent or

Desk Transaction Advisory Service and PPP Unit

lacks

at

clear

objectives,

which

often

results

in

projects getting blocked and not executed as

Finance

GTAC)

and

Mr

at

Nedbank),

David

Richard

Mr

Themba

Buytenhuys

(Business Development Manager at Grupo Cobra).

planned, creating uncertainty for investors. Mr Mdletshe suggests a policy for change. To this

This conference served as a catalyst to share

end, projects have already been centralized and a

knowledge and ideas that would be implemented

clearer and more realistic plan has been created

in the quest for sustainability.

to meet all infrastructural needs. Projects will no longer be analysed independently, but sectoral committees projects

will

are

be

prepared

properly

to

ensure

monitored.

that

Lastly,

investment security will be applied to avoid the unjustified cancellation of projects.

Mr Themba Mdletshe and Sean Phillips.

Mr Themba Mdletshe, Senior Project Advisor in Municipal Desk Transaction Advisory Service and PPP Unit at GTAC.

Mr

Thiago

Almeida,

Sector

Lead:

Power

&

Infrastructure

at

Nedbank, and Mr David Richard Buytenhuys (Business Development Manager at Grupo Cobra Africa).

-14-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 15

Exhibitors The

Spanish

Chamber

of

plug points, a TV etc. The Solar Power Café can help you choose the loads best suited to run off

Commerce

RSA

was

pleased to host 3 companies as exhibitors at the Water Security and Sustainable Renewable Energy Conference presented

2022. the

The

unique

following products

companies

and

services

offered, which added value to the conference, and have great potential to address the challenges faced in the global environmental sphere.

dedicated solar during the day.

The execution of this is obviously dependent on the amount of sunshine available and the size of the installation. The Solar Power Café executes at a minimum of 4kWp for the solar panel array, which produces at least 20kWh on a full sunshine day.

For

The Solar Power Café

business

ensures

owners,

that

The

business

Solar

Power

Café

operations

are

The Solar Power Cafe is an outlet for designed

uninterrupted

hybrid

domestic

incurred due to power outages. The computer

market, specialising in installations up to 300kVA.

network, internet connection, printing, motors,

The company is a family business, consisting of a

fans, pumps and other essential electrical loads

highly qualified father and daughter management

to your business can be run off solar power

team. Michelle Lingham achieved her first RE

during the day.

solar

power

qualification

as

Transformation

of

system

July

Expert

for

2020 and

the

as has

an

Renewable

Energy,

with

Renac

no

production

losses

are

Energy

completed

qualification number 2 as Co-Benefits specialist in

and

in

For more information on the Solar Power Café, visit their website hereunder.

Berlin,

Germany.

Village Water Filters SA Village Water Filters manufactures bucket water filters

that

purify

water

to

make

it

safe

by

removing all the dirt particles and 99.999% of hazardous organisms like cholera, typhoid, e. coli, and botulism, among others. The Village Water filter bucket provides everyday access to clean and safe water for families, connects to any garden tap, borehole tap, JoJo tank tap or plastic bucket.

There

requires

no

are

no

chemicals

maintenance

and

utilized, requires

it no

replacement parts.

Ms. Michelle Lingham, Founder and CEO.

Full services offered: Quiet, fully automated Back-up power for your home or business when electricity outages occur.

Advanced Solar Power system that allows you to save on your monthly electricity bill.

Benefits of using Solar Power: Using solar power permits you to generate your own power throughout the day. You can use it to power

big

appliances

such

as

the

washing

machine, vacuum cleaner, swimming pool pump,

Ms Ninky Shuenyane, Founder and Managing Director and Ms Morwa Sako.

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SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 16

This product is ideal for disaster management programs,

CSI,

and

camping

as

well.

This

initiative can contribute so much to the rapidly emerging era of water security and will benefit many communities that struggle with the access to clean water and sanitation.

Benefits of using Water Filter buckets: C o o k i n g w i t h c l e a n w a t e r:

The nutritious

value of food increases by approximately 40% from cooking with clean water.

Improvement w a t e r:

of

This

hand-washing act

with

reduces

clean Ms Yvonne Skerritt, Regional Sales Manager.

stomach

complications/ diarrhoea.

Values and benefits of TAAG Angola Airlines:

S a v e s T i m e , S a v e s M o n e y , I m p r o v e s H e a l t h:

Operation Security & Reliability:

Reduces the risks of diseases from the use of

TAAG ensures the following:

unclean water (reduces trips to clinics and hospitals,

ultimately

reducing

the

A strict compliance with all operational

absence

safety, safety and quality rules in all of

from work and school).

TAAG's operations;

V e r s a t i l e: E a s y a n d c o n v e n i e n t c o n n e c t i o n f o r drinking

bottle,

tap

(garden/kitchen),

A strict collaboration with national and

Jojo

international regulatory entities;

tank, borehole tap, hippo roller lid.

A

S u i t a b l e f o r c a m p i n g a n d h i k i n g: A l l y o u r

total

commitment

to

punctuality

and

reliability in our operations;

clean and safe drinking water needs on the go.

Passenger Service Excellence: Passengers are served in a professional and

For more information on the Village Water Filters,

courteous manner.

visit their website hereunder.

TAAG adapts the features of its services to the needs of its passengers.

Environmental Awareness: The

TAAG Angola Airlines

promotion

environmental

of

measures

of

within

the

awareness

TAAG Angola Airlines (TAAG Linhas Aéreas de

Company.

Angola ) is a state-owned airline and flag carrier

TAAG works to minimise the environmental

of Angola. The airline offers domestic services

impact

within

environmental accountability criteria; e.g.

18

destinations

international

in

destinations

in

Angola, South

and

16

America,

the

of

its

cutlery

Europe, Asia and Africa. The airline now offers a

hospitality

direct flight to Spain, Madrid (see page 16 for

friendly,

more information).

working

operations

and

crockery

services and

the

is

by used

in

the

environmentally

airline

towards

adopting

is

currently

amending

the

environmental accountability criteria, and TAAG presents itself as a leading company for

aligning

modernisation of aerial transportation in Angola,

Sustainable Renewable Energy.

through operation

a

reliable that

around the world.

and

financially

promotes

Angola's

it

with

the

emerging

era

of

sustainable image

all

For

more

information

on

the

TAAG

Airlines, visit their website hereunder.

-16-

Angola

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 17

WHERE IS THE ARCHITECTURE OF OUR CITIES HEADING? Pablo Corroto Pradillo | Founder of Áh!

“Philosophy takes shape: other forms of sustainability” We need to understand as a society the importance of architecture in sustainability, its methodology and its ability to influence the development of cultures and social behavior, both from a technical and philosophical perspective.

If I have learnt anything from my trips, living and

Why start with this and not with the title of this

professional experiences all around the world, it

article

is the importance of interaction; the interaction

Architecture of the future of our cities?

or

even

with:

Sustainability

and

between everything, even between concepts and not its definition by itself.

Henceforth, to advance or create a future, it is necessary to know the past; the history; and the

When I write about interaction I'm talking about

origin of things. Therefore, to be or commit to

relationships, connections, and this is what it's

sustainability,

it

all

relationships

and

about.

The

relationships

between

people,

is

necessary

interactions

to that

know make

the a

between the environment and people, and the

system, any system, sustainable. In this sense,

connections between the objects that make up

architecture has been and will continue to be a

the environment... has a name: ECOLOGY.

medium that brings together a substantial amount of interactions from which we can learn to apply

Ecology is a branch of science that studies the

to other disciplines and other aspects of our

relationships of different living beings with each

immediate reality.

other, their environment and their effects on their properties

Architecture is not the only medium that will lead us to sustainability. However, since our buildings and cities represent such a significant part of any culture (socially, economically, environmentally and even philosophically), it is the most impactful tool that will lead us to sustainability. It has become a good starting point with which to generate

sustainable

systems

or

ecologies.

However it is vulnerable to over-exploitation and failure to innovate in different directions, thus becoming an enemy to sustainability. An analysis is therefore necessary to ascertain whether it is indeed good in all scenarios.

Essentially, let us answer the question that gives the title to this article: Where are we going? What are the reasons and the motives why Architecture has become an essential material to achieving sustainability?

-17-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 18

Towards a circular

We could give three fundamental reasons that reveal where we are going; three reasons that

economy

have produced the evolution and fundamental role of architecture as a generator of sustainable ecological systems in our contemporary cities:

Circular

construction

is

a

buzzword:

contemporarily everyone claims to be circular. In The rise of green capitalism.

practice, however, recycling rates worldwide are

The circular economy craze.

below 9%, with not enough secondary material to

Social change.

meet demand. The circular economy redefines the way the world consumes and produces goods and services. It is an economic, but also a social

Towards green capitalism Green capitalism (or eco-capitalism) recognises that capital and profits are equally dependent on environmental protection and sustainability. The construction sector can pave the way towards

framework that seeks a shift in the consumption of finite resources and seeks to eliminate waste and

pollution.

The

transition

to

natural

architecture has come to the forefront of design conversations, with an emphasis on reuse, repair and recycling of materials.

green capitalism by adopting models that place people and planet alongside profits. The use of green materials has a ripple effect on the design of buildings and cities, addressing environmental challenges at the scale of the unit. However, to achieve the full benefits of green architecture along with functionality and cost-effectiveness, a strong level of design integration is required.

Naturally

sourced

materials

do

not

require

energy-intensive manufacturing methods, unlike those carbon

produced footprint

industrially. helps

to

Their

negligible

control

energy

consumption, develop renewable energy and build local circular economies.

A shift towards green capitalism requires a deep understanding of natural materials, especially in their local contexts. New materials are being complemented by the rediscovery of old ones such as rammed earth, straw bales, bamboo and stone, all of which are non-toxic, safe, durable and versatile. At the same time, the age-old skills of generations of builders need to be re-examined to lay the foundations for an appreciation of vernacular building practices.

Environmental

challenges

are

driving

research

into the use of locally collected resources and sustainability

to

encourage

the

reuse

and

recycling of materials. Energy saving and ecofriendly

practices

architecture

can

also

inherent be

in

hybridized

natural by

using

technology to optimize material properties. The potential of the latest generation of bio-based building materials will drive the transition to a carbon-neutral,

healthy

and

circular

built

environment.

Societies

must

architectural

preserve

cultures

and

and

strengthen

promote

a

local

diverse

range of building solutions that can be used in multiple contexts and scales. This requires a review

of

our

economic

and

social

model,

revisiting the relationship between humans and their environment. Natural materials not only call for an ecological way of building, but also for a new way of living.

-18-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 19

Towards a social

As

current

narrow

and

ethos

of

"green"

manifests

itself

said,

"we

shape

our

a framework around how we live, our actions, our health and our social relationships. To stimulate a

architecture as

Churchill

buildings, then they shape us". Architecture forms

paradigm shift The

Winston

is

technological

change in society's values, it is vital to change the architecture that shapes our daily behavior.

attempts to improve the energy efficiency of a building.

This

architecture, movement

social seems

that

decontextualized

paradigm, fixed

built

especially the

structures disconnected

in

The green revolution will bring about a change in

modernist

economic and social structures and therefore

that

were

influence

from

the

built

environment.

Green

their

architecture is not a single miracle, but one

surroundings. The old harmony between humans

element of a wide range of strategies. A truly

and nature remains a relic of the past, when it

green

could

contribute to the next paradigm of sustainable

navigate

and

in

social

change

towards

an

ecologically balanced world.

ancient worldview of humans as an integrated whole in the biosphere. The buildings of the future must be alive, the product of a circular economy, consuming its own waste and residues like any living ecosystem. role

of

architecture

of

architecture

environmental transition.

We must emphasise the need to return to our

The

form

in

achieving

sustainability and combating climate change goes beyond controlling building emissions or using sustainable materials.

-19-

can

and

must

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 20

TAAG’S EXCITING NEW AIRCRAFT BRINGS FAMILIES AND FRIENDS TOGETHER THIS FESTIVE SEASON TAAG Angola Airlines A Boeing 777 aircraft will be joining TAAG Angola

TAAG Angola Airlines’ Boeing 777 aircraft opens

Airlines’ fleet this festive season. From the 16th of

up

December, the Johannesburg–Madrid route gains

experiences, bringing peace of mind, convenience

this

an

and new travel opportunities to those who want

increased capacity to successfully meet travelers’

to fly over this bustling period. Its expanded

needs, connecting loved ones over the busiest

capacity empowers TAAG to reunite families and

time of the year.

friends over the time of year when being together

mighty

aircraft,

which

will

provide

a

whole

new

world

of

availability

and

is the priority for many.

For those needing a vacation, TAAG’s new aircraft addition offers the chance to go on a spectacular

TAAG airlines additionally offers a network of

Spanish holiday whilst traveling in comfort and

destinations

style. This Boeing 777 will fly passengers from

passengers to travel on a codeshare basis to

Johannesburg

London, Amsterdam, Rome, Milan, Geneva, Zurich,

to

magical

Madrid

with

ample

seating space, ensuring that the whole family is

Brussels

included.

destinations

in

and

Europe

Porto. in

Spain

via

This

Madrid

allowing

includes

namely

the

domestic cities

of

Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Gran Canaria, Vigo, The opportune timing of TAAG’s capacity upgrade

Malaga,

over

Choose

explore the wonders of the world over this festive

plazas, palaces and striking architecture sparkle

season!

displays

travelers

Seville.

TAAG to reunite with friends and family and

light

that

and

can

impressive

means

Valencia,

experience Madrid at its best, when its grand with

December

Bilbao,

for

the

festive

season. Famous for its premium retail, Madrid is the perfect place for festive shopping. Other seasonal draws include Christmas markets and fairytale

ice

rinks.

Together

with

exceptional

cuisine, these attractions place Madrid at the top of

the

list

of

desirable

destinations

for

the

December holidays.

-20-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 21

SA’S SUPERFOOD PRODUCER GETS FINANCIAL BOOST Origin Organics SA superfood company, Origin of Moringa, has more than tripled its sales year-on-year since its products reached South African supermarket shelves three years ago.

The range of Origin of Moringa products are

Says de la Hunt, one of the reasons why the

available in Dis-Chem and Pick n Pay stores

business has been able to increase its presence

across the African continent and selected local

and sales is the company’s ability to innovate and

pharmacies as well as a major online player in the

create new products that hold the nutritious

health foods / superfood space.

value of what is referred to as “green gold”.

Founded

by

Julian

de

la

Hunt

and

Llewellyn

Moringa

is

vitamins

and

packed

with

minerals

proteins, including

nutrients, vitamin

A,

Marshall in 2018, Origin of Moringa was created

vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin),

with

B-6, folate and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), calcium,

the

dual

communities

as

purpose well

as

to create

both a

develop range

of

nutritious food using the many health benefits

potassium,

iron,

magnesium,

phosphorus

and

zinc.

offered by the moringa tree.

Two years ago, the business sourced funding from The boost in sales, one of the few companies that

financial services provider, Fedgroup. Fedgroup

saw an increase in sales during the hard lockdown

Impact Farming is an investment platform where

periods caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, is a

South Africans can invest directly in a moringa

combination of not only the nutritious product

tree on one of Origin of Moringa’s organic farms

that they sell, but the variety available.

and earn proceeds from the sale of the tree’s harvest. Moringa trees are available at R100 per

Origin of Moringa doesn’t just sell the moringa

tree. Investors can expect an average profit of

powder in its pure or capsule form, but also sells

10% per annum over the three-year investment

a health tonic, tea, moringa infused salt and

term, with returns starting out low and ramping

pepper, health bars, porridges, soup, sugar-free

up over time as the trees mature.

peanut butter, lollies and hot chocolate drinks, rusks and a range of cosmetics – all infused with

The Fedgroup Impact Farming funding platform,

the superfood.

is

a

world

first.

investors to but

also

Created

not

only

to

allow

gain exposure to tangible assets, to

create

innovative

funding

opportunities for farmers whose needs have been left unmet by traditional finance avenues.

“Origin

of

communities

Moringa and

was

provide

founded nutritious

to

build

food.

We

chose to partner with Fedgroup and its Impact Farming platform because the business holds the same values as we do. Not just in fair business practices but also their commitment to playing a positive role in every interaction that they have,” says Marshall.

-21-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 22

STAINLESS STEEL: THE COST COMPETITIVE CORROSION SOLUTION Columbus Stainless When

choosing

metals

for

longevity

and

Corrosion

low

can

be

defined

as

the

process

of

obvious

gradual destruction of materials by a chemical

choice. This is due to its distinctive corrosion

reaction with their environment. It degrades the

resistance,

useful

maintenance,

various

stainless

long

life

steel giving

aggressive

is

the

characteristic

environments

in

whilst

properties

of

metals

and

structures

including strength and their structural integrity

maintaining its original properties and aesthetic

as

a

result

appearance. Columbus Stainless is the company

perforation. Most metals and metal alloys tend to

that is spearheading the manufacturing of this

revert

material in South Africa and has been in operation

exposure to moisture in the air. For example,

for more than 50 years.

carbon

to

of

their

steels

mass

loss

natural

are

made

and

stable up

of

inevitably

states iron

from and

a

combination of other alloying elements. Without Columbus

is

a

member

of

the

Spanish-based

any

surface

protection,

they

tend

to

form

a

Acerinox S.A. Group of Companies and Africa's

coating of rust (iron-oxide) which is brittle and

only producer of stainless steel flat products.

exfoliates, exposing a new fresh surface of the

Founded in 1966, Columbus Stainless is the only

steel

fully integrated, technologically advanced, single-

environment.

site stainless steel producer. The plant is based in

devastating effects on equipment and structures.

Middleburg – Mpumalanga and produces a wide

Stainless steel has a unique advantage in that a

range of Austenitic, Ferritic, Utility, and Duplex

thin,

grades

most

chromium oxide layer forms on the surface of the

applications and has the melting capacity of 1 000

steel. This oxide layer gives the steel its unique

000 tons per annum to supply stainless steel flat

corrosion-resisting

products (coils, plates, and sheets) to various

environments. The steel must contain a minimum

final customers, distributors, engineering shops

of 10.5% chromium for this passive layer to form.

and mines globally (e.g. in Africa, Europe, the

Stainless steel is known for its superior corrosion

United States, Asia, etc.)

resistance and is mainly used in the bare mill

of

stainless

steel

suitable

for

to

be

attacked This

tenacious,

by

cycle

and

the

immediate

continues

self-repairing

properties

with

passive

in

most

finish without the need for additional protective coating systems to enhance corrosion protection.

Columbus

Stainless

produces

the

three

main

families of stainless steel namely; standard and utility ferritic, austenitic and duplex stainless steel.

The

main

properties

and

successful

applications are listed below, indicating their strengths

and

applications.

-22-

versatility

in

a

wide

range

of

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 23

Successful Application:

F e r r i t i c S t a i n l e s s S t e e l: C o m m o n l y k n o w n a s p l a i n chromium steels. Ferritic stainless steel contains at

least

10.5%

elements

chromium,

to

improve

additional

corrosion

3CR12® Coal wagons and

alloying

resistance,

life cycle costing case

strength and welding properties can be added for the various grades.

study.

Common examples are 430, 409, 441 and 444.

In 1985, trial coal wagons were manufactured out

Standard ferritic grades, e.g. 430 are used

of 3CR12 in the hot rolled and annealed (HRA)

mainly for aesthetic applications like cutlery,

surface

cookware as well as applications like roofing,

transport coal between Ermelo and Richards Bay.

cladding

and

are

used

to

They have a payload of 80 tons and make the journey roughly five times a week. Before 3CR12,

niobium

the wagons were made from Cor-Ten, but these

for

Grade

wagons

441

titanium

trims.

These

which contain additional alloying elements like and

decorative

finish.

stabilisation

and

higher strength at high temperature, is mainly

only

used

in

robust

automotive

applications

industry

for

like

exhaust

lasted

in

the

required

pipes

and

inspections

8-12

after of

years,

with

refurbishment

five

years.

Over

these

coal

wagons

the

years,

have

been

catalytic converters.

conducted, of note, the study done in 2012, after

Molybdenum containing ferritic grades, e.g.

27 years of service. The wall thickness of these

436 and 444 exhibit higher pitting and general

coal

corrosion resistance. Because ferritic stainless

ultrasonic

steel grades are resistant to stress corrosion

steel wagons recorded corrosion-abrasion wear

cracking, they are used in applications where

rate

their austenitic equivalents (i.e. 304 and 316

Compared to mild steel, the metal loss of 10μyr

respectively) cannot be used like hot water

was

systems.

application.

Utility Ferritic Stainless Steel: 3CR12® is a low

coal wagons in this environment have a predicted

cost utility ferritic stainless steel developed

total life of 65 years. Mild steel wagons would

by

have to be replaced roughly 8 times in this time

Columbus

Stainless

and

used

widely

wagons

of

was

measured

thickness

160

micrometres

recorded

for

From

per

3CR12

these

extensive The

annum wagons

period,

as a cost effective solution to corrosion in a

potential lost production time.

increasing

mild

(160μyr). in

measurements,

throughout the South-African mining industry

significantly

using

measurements.

costs

this 3CR12

and

wide range of structural applications. It has excellent

properties

conditions moderate

due

to

corrosion

in

its

wet-abrasion

superior

resistance

strength, and

good

slideability. Applications are widespread and include

materials

handling

environments

in

mines and coal wash plants. It is used for applications such as ore cars and wagons, chutes and launders as well as shaft steel work, chimney stacks, ducting, roofing and cladding (most commonly poultry and piggery buildings), walkways including grating, hand rails,

stairs,

fencing.

It

electrical is

also

boxes

widely

and

used

in

security sewage

processing plants and municipal water storage tanks.

Austenitic Stainless Steel: This family of steels contain iron alloyed with chromium and nickel for improved

properties.

formability

and

They

fabricability

have and

excellent

exhibit

good

strength properties both in cryogenic and very high

temperatures.

These

grades

are

used

extensively in the food and beverage industries, petrochemical

industries,

high

temperature

application – due to great oxidation resistance.

-23-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 24

Standard austenitic grades, e.g. 304, contain high contents of chromium and nickel. Typical example is grade 304 which has great success in

applications

demanding

high

hygienic

properties such as in agriculture and abattoirs (including dairy processing and meat handling equipment, food and beverage storage tanks); catering and hospitality (cooking utensils, food processing

equipment,

cold

storage;

and

health care industries for medical equipment and

surgical

tools).

The

regulatory

safety

requirement in these industries is that there must

be

no

measurable

chemical

reaction

between the metal surface and the product (e.g. food). This ensures the product is not contaminated

with

metallic

constituents

or

corrosion products.

Molybdenum containing austenitic grade, 316, exhibits

increased

corrosion

general

protection

aggressive

and

is

environments.

and

localised

used

in

Main

more

applications

South

Africa

boasts

a

wide

variety

of

large

include the manufacture of tank containers for

industries, including power generation, mining,

the bulk transportation of chemicals, gases

farming

and corrosive liquids; processing tanks in the

diverse industries, the steel industry lies at the

chemical

helm. Stainless steel has proven itself as a multi-

and

petrochemical

industries;

and

manufacturing.

To

support

these

Pressure vessels.

functional and adaptable metal of choice and has

Heat resisting grades (309 and 310S) contain

proven successful in many application and offers

much higher chromium and nickel contents

great value to the manufacturing industry. It

than

for

remains

a

oxidation

material

of

the

standard

improved

high

resistance

and

austenitic

grades

temperature can

maintain

reasonable

cost

competitive,

choice

sustainability;

low

contributing

being

100%

maintenance long

term

recyclable

to

and

strength at very high temperatures. They are

manufactured using recycled material. Columbus

successfully used in heat exchangers, heating

Stainless is proud to have contributed to the

elements, burners and combustion chambers

development of this material over five decades

and electrical elements

and will continue to do so as Africa and the whole world continue to grow. Indeed the future of

Duplex

Stainless

Steel:

grades

contain

a

Duplex

mixed

stainless

steel

microstructure

manufacturing is Stainless.

of

austenite and ferrite. They have characteristic high

strength,

cracking

and

resistance superior

to

stress

corrosion

corrosion resistance.

Popular grades include lean duplex 2304 and standard

duplex

grade

2205.

Successful

applications are in the paper, pulp, chemical, petrochemical and mining industries for various processing equipment and storage tanks. Their superior corrosion resistance can withstand even harsh marine environments.

-24-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 25

EXCESSIVE SPEEDING AND THE LAW - A COSTLY PURSUIT! Spellas Lengert Kübler Braun Incorporated (“SLKB”) Section 59 of the National Road Traffic Act (“the Act”) states that it is an offence for a person to drive a vehicle on a public road at a speed in excess of the general speed limit, which for urban roads is 60 kmh, roads outside an urban area but which are not freeways are 100 kmh and 120 kmh for freeways.

Law enforcement officers will issue an offender

of

with a ‘ticket’ for speeding if caught driving in

criminal record, which remains for life unless

excess of the prescribed speeds above. In these

expunged.

imprisonment.

The

offender

will

have

a

instances, offenders are given the option to make payment

of

the

fine

imposed

or

contest

the

charge in Court. These so-called minor traffic offences are also referred to as admission of guilt fines. Where an offender chooses to pay the fine, he admits his guilt to the offence, without having to appear in Court.

However, for offenders who speed in excess of 30 kmh in urban areas and 40 kmh outside urban areas and freeways of the prescribed speed limit, the Act regards as in a serious light and makes no provision for a payment of an admission of guilt fine. Law enforcement officers are required to arrest offenders and criminally charge them with reckless

and

negligent

driving,

in

terms

of

Section 63 of the Act.

Court or imprisoned and may then be released on bail. The offender will have to appear in Court face

criminal

prosecution

Administrative Offences

Act

Adjudication has

been

of

Road

promulgated

Traffic with

the

purpose of administering traffic offences, which are previously dealt with by the criminal law system.

AARTO

will

prescribe

most

traffic

violations as infringements, subject to fines and demerit

points,

whilst

only

the

more

serious

offences will be subject to criminal prosecution,

An offender is either summoned to appear in

and

What about the ‘AARTO’ Act? In a nutshell, the

of

the

alleged

offences. Section 35 of the Act prescribes that, offenders who are convicted of this offence shall have their licence suspended for a period of at least six months on their first offence, five years if it is their second and ten years if it is their third offence.

where a court appearance would be necessary.

Although the AARTO Act intends to decriminalise certain

traffic

offences,

it

will

however

implement a points demerit system, in which one’s

driving

license

is

suspended

for

three

months for every point exceeding the threshold for demerit points. Three suspensions will result in

the

cancellation

of

your

license

with

the

resultant effect of having to re-do both learner’s and driving tests. Despite the AARTO Act having

Lastly, if an offender is convicted of reckless and negligent driving, Section 89 of the Act further

been implemented, the points demerit system has taken effect on 1 July 2022.

empowers the Magistrate to impose a fine or term

-25-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 26

THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF DIGITAL MARKETING – WHAT RUBIX CUBE HAS LEARNT IN THE LAST FEW YEARS Rubix Cube Digital Here are Rubix Cube´s quick tips on the world of digital marketing, based on our fruitful and exciting experiences since 2017.

Our first pro-tip:

Our third pro-tip:

Always remember that consumers are constantly

There are only up-sides to seeking professional

being

bombarded

instead

of

assistance.

content

or

marketing will give your business a competitive

sharing too much too quickly, rather become

advantage, allow your marketing to reach new

consistent in your posting. By scheduling posts

customers and markets faster, and optimize the

and focusing on quality over quantity, you will

business´ existing services. It will also allow your

maintain

give

business to grow multiple revenue streams and

consumers time to process and appreciate your

explore cutting edge capabilities and solutions. If

content. This will keep your business´ online

this appeals to you and your business, click here

presence competitive and avoid crowding your

to schedule a consultation with Rubix Cube.

spamming

them

with with

your

content low

so

quality

professionalism

and

Seeking

expert

advice

for

digital

brand with unnecessary posts.

Our second pro-tip: The more you know, the better. It is essential to have clearly defined your target audience in order to

design

content

that

appeals

to

them

and

creates an impressive customer experience. This knowledge

will

also

dictate

the

best

digital

channels to market through to directly reach these

desired

consumers.

Your

valuable

idea,

business, or product is unique and deserves a unique

marketing

researching

your

strategy,

which

competition

is

means

that

essential

in

ensuring that your strategy is a step ahead of the rest.

For more information on the Rubix Cube Digital, visit their website hereunder.

-26-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS AND INSIGHTS

PAGE 27

ENJOY TAX-FREE SHOPPING DURING YOUR HOLIDAYS ZappTax Anyone

whose

main

residence

is

outside

Why use ZappTax?

the

European Union has the right to a VAT refund on purchases made in the EU and taken home, in

Simple, fast, and easy process

their luggage, to their country of residence.

You

can

download

the

app

and

create

your

While tax-free shopping is a great and profitable

profile. When shopping, simply ask for an “invoice

option for non-EU residents, the process used to

including

be complicated and cumbersome.

merchants are legally obliged to issue such an

VAT

in

the

name

of

ZappTax”.

All

invoice on request. All you need to do is take a ZappTax has made it its mission to facilitate the

photo

VAT-refund

ZappTax application.

process

so

that

everyone

who

is

of

each

invoice

and

upload

it

to

the

eligible can simply take advantage of their right to save.

Applies to all your purchases, with no maximum, even your on-line purchases Once you’re done with all your purchases, you are a few clicks away from generating your tax-free form. You will need to validate this tax-free form when leaving the EU: from France and Spain, you can

scan

the

document

directly

from

your

smartphone at a self-service terminal; in Belgium, by showing your passport to the customs officer.

24/7 customer service Our international team is here to help you on every step of the way, we are available via in-app c h a t , e m a i l (s u p p o r t @ z a p p t a x . c o m) , p h o n e , a n d social media.

-27-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA EVENTS

PAGE 28

SCC UPCOMING MEETING EVENTS CALENDAR 2023

AND

DATE

MEETING / EVENT

Friday, February 10

SCC 1st Board Meeting

Monday, February 13

European Trade and Investment Networking Event Cape Town

Friday, February 17

SCC Gala and Awards Dinner

Thursday, February 23

EU Chambers Budget Presentation with Mazars - Speakers

Wednesday, March 8

International Women's Day - Leadership on the Couch with IE and ABSA

Thursday, April 20

SCC 2rd Board Meeting in preparation for AGM

Tuesday, April 25

Takatso Lunch Event: FSACCI & SCC

Mar/April (TBC)

The Presidency Investment Conference for South Africa

Thursday, May 25

Africa Day with IE Business School

Friday, May 26

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Sunday, June 4

F1 Spanish Granprix Race in Barcelona at Casa De España

June (TBC)

Virtual Networking With the Spanish Chambers in Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Senegal & Tangiers Members

(NB*) Dates are a subject to change and more topics will be added

-28-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA EVENTS

PAGE 29

DATE

MEETING / EVENT

Friday, July 21

SCC 3rd Board Meeting

Wednesday, July 26

Knowledge Café : Managing Projects using PPP - Prof PD Rwelamila

TBC

EU Delegation Discussion with Mr Roberto Cecutti - Firs Counsellor, Head of Trade & Economic Section Delegation of the EU to RSA

Thursday, August 17 (TBC)

Current State of South Africa in preparation to for 2024 - Speaker Moeletsi Mbeki

Friday, September 15

SCC 4rd Board Meeting

September (TBC)

Round Table with Spanish Agri Association with Ambassador & ABSA

Tuesday, October 3

EU Golf Day Johannesburg at Randpark Golf Club

Friday, October 27

EU Golf Day Cape Town at Westlake Golf Club

October (TBC)

Round Table Discussion with International Affairs Ministry & DTIC and Invest SA

Sunday, 12 November

Spanish Festival Paella & Tortilla de Patatas Competition

Friday, 17 November

SCC Last Board Meeting

(NB*) Dates are a subject to change and more topics will be added

-29-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 30

THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY MARKET IN SOUTH AFRICA ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones, E.P.E. The current global trend is heading towards an

to

economic

linear

managed. Ninety per cent of waste generated in

economy, “take-make-dispose” system, is heading

South Africa is still landfilled, which translates

towards an end. This new economic model, which

into

transcends across all sectors, is a new turning

although many of these will not be accessible to

point for many countries and their economies,

Spanish companies.

model

where

the

traditional

the

traditional

business

method

in

opportunities

which

for

waste

the

is

sector,

including South Africa.

This is mainly due to the following factors:

South Africa is currently in the process of taking

The amount of waste traded by South Africa is

profound

relatively

decisions

regarding

its

future

low,

and

often

part

of

the

development. Following the global trend of green

international

and inclusive development, the country may be

neighbouring countries. Opportunities in this

facing what will be the cornerstone of a post-

respect are therefore limited.

crisis economic recovery.

Management of the waste sector is mainly

operations

are

between

carried out by public bodies and companies,

While the circular economy is gaining traction

which in many cases collaborate with large

internationally,

the

private companies established in the country,

world's major economies (Europe, North America,

leaving few alternatives for the entry of new

and other countries such as China) will inevitably

companies.

face

Finally, informal activity plays an important

the

the

rise

of

consequences

economies

such

for

in

extractive-based The

role in the value chain. The informal sector is

the

made up of so-called "waste pickers", citizens

national level offers opportunities in the face of

who independently, mainly as a subsistence

future

volatile

activity, collect and sell waste. It is estimated

international markets, while unlocking the socio-

that there are currently between 90,000 and

economic

215,000 waste pickers in the country.

implementation

as

circularity

of

a

resource

develop

local

compete

in

and job

at

creation)

economic

growth.

offers

opportunities

also

value-added export

increasingly

Africa.

economy

(particularly

with

implementation

circular

constraints

benefits

associated

South

stringent

to

South Africa trades a small amount of the waste it

to

manages with other countries, in fact, in 2017,

impose

South Africa managed approximately 55.6 million

environmental

tonnes of general waste, of which 400,000 kg was

industries

markets

This

that

and

requirements on products.

for

international

trade

activities

(export

and

import), which is a relatively very small amount.

South African research currently reveals a clear

In fact, an estimated 131,196 tonnes of general

trend towards the development of this particular

waste was imported, representing less than 1% of

economy. In fact, both its top leadership and a

the total general waste generated in South Africa

wide range of national legislation, economic tools

in

and

economic

accounting for 3%. On the other hand, South

initiatives and processes in which the principles

Africa imported an average of 168,592 tonnes of

of the circular economy are readily applicable.

hazardous waste per year, representing less than

state

support

directly

support

2017,

while

690,050

tonnes

was

exported,

1% of the total hazardous waste managed.

Traditionally,

the

circular

economy

has

been

linked to the waste sector, offering alternatives

-30-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

Thus,

while

PAGE 31

improving

waste

management

is

essential, its scope for increasing circularity is limited, leaving little scope for new business opportunities. economy

Moreover,

needs

to

the

develop

South

African

new

national

a

development model that involves the progressive abandonment of its extractive orientation of nonrenewable

resources

generation,

a

model

for

export

that

could

and

energy

provide

new

possibilities for Spanish companies.

South

Africa

intensive

remains

one

of

economies,

and

one

the

most

coal-

the

main

of

greenhouse gas emitters. Therefore, the main opportunities principles

for

are

in

applying

circular

resource-intensive

economy sectors,

which are also the country's key sectors, such as mining, agriculture, water and energy.

Sergio Merino Romeo.

Click here to read full report.

-31-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 32

THE ENTREPRENEURSHIP ECOSYSTEM IN SOUTH AFRICA ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones, E.P.E. The South African entrepreneurship ecosystem is

entrepreneurship

one

ecosystem

on

the

African

the

African

continent. It is the only African country in the

stronger

support

StartupBlink study's global top 50 and, regionally,

of

the

Cape Town and Johannesburg are ranked as the

continent, a stable entrepreneurial ecosystem and

second and third most attractive cities on the

a growing rate of start-ups and raving success

continent.

of

the

continent. institutions

most

The

promising

country

than

on

has

much

of

the

rest

cases. In 2020, 660 start-ups were created in In

South Africa, higher than the previous year.

terms

of

South

in

entrepreneurship,

positioning

Africa's

international international

industrialised

rankings reveal that the country lags behind most

economy, has a highly developed financial sector

developed countries, but has the most advanced

and has the most mature start-up ecosystem in

entrepreneurship

Africa. Entrepreneurship in South Africa is a key

continent. It is the only African country in the

economic lever to achieve economic growth in

StartupBlink study's global top 50 and, regionally,

the

reduce

Cape Town and Johannesburg are ranked as the

youth

second and third most attractive cities on the

South

Africa

is

country,

Africa's

given

unemployment,

the

more

unemployment,

and

most

need

to

especially

inequality

through

wealth

ecosystem

on

the

African

continent.

creation.

Two types of entrepreneurship ecosystems can

recently

be found in South Africa. On the one hand, the

recognised the important role that start-ups and

ecosystem located in Johannesburg and Pretoria,

SMEs can play, and is offering an increasing

in the Gauteng province, where 45.5% of start-ups

number of incentives and grants to encourage

are concentrated, and which operates on the basis

entrepreneurship in the country. However, the

of

country

funds directed towards entrepreneurship. On the

T h e r e f o r e,

the

must

government

overcome

has

structural

challenges

government hand,

investment Cape

Town

and

private

and

sector

affecting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as

other

the dual economy, understood as the existence of

ecosystem in the Western Cape, where 50% of the

Stellenbosch

two

the

companies are based. This market is more akin to

country; the lack of infrastructure development

the more mature ecosystems, made up of angel

and the low quality of education.

investors

separate

economic

sectors

within

and

venture

capital,

rather

than

government funding.

M e a n w h i l e, t h e p r i v a t e s e c t o r h a s b e e n a t t h e forefront of strategies aimed at job creation and

Among the most successful South African start-

business growth in South Africa. There are a

ups are those with a high technology component

growing number of entities and associations that

and those that aim to improve the current state of

encourage

the economy or society and seek solutions to

the

creation

of

new

businesses,

existing challenges in the market. One of the most

through access to finance, training or mentoring.

outstanding and, fastest growing success stories

In

terms

positioning

of in

South

Africa's

entrepreneurship,

international

in the country are Yoco, a financial technology

international

company

that

sells

dataphones

and

online

rankings reveal that the country lags behind most

payment services that aims to contribute to the

developed countries, but has the most advanced

financial inclusion of small establishments; and

-32-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 33

Sweep South, which offers jobs to disadvantaged

incubator on the continent. There are also a

individuals through a cleaning app that connects

variety

service seekers with cleaning professionals.

organise

of

associations

a

wide

range

and of

platforms

events,

that

workshops,

networking events and provide coworking spaces

With regard to the South African entrepreneurial

across

p r o f i l e, t h e u n e q u a l d i s t r i b u t i o n o f w e a l t h i n t h e

practical information on entrepreneurship and are

country

a good opportunity to expand the network of

generates

entrepreneurs. individuals

On

who

two the

take

different one

hand,

advantage

types

of

there

are

of

the

country.

These

associations

offer

contacts and facilitate access to funding.

existing

opportunities in the market; these tend to be

While funding available to start-ups is increasing

middle class and educated. On the other hand,

rapidly, access to finance is one of the main

there are those who undertake business out of

challenges to the growth of entities in South

necessity, with a lower percentage of people with

Africa. Banks are more likely to place capital in

education and income.

post-development stage entities, while the public sector is making greater efforts to assist start-

I n t e r m s o f f i n a n c i n g m e t h o d s, s t a r t - u p s h a v e

ups with appropriate incentives.

different options depending on their stage of development and their financing needs. Thus, in

In order to set up successfully in South Africa, an

the

the

e n t i t y m u s t c o m p l y w i t h S o u t h A f r i c a n l a w. T h i s

business plan is being outlined, the most common

starts with registration with the Companies and

sources of funding are subsidies, through public

Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), as well

programmes

and

as with the South African Revenue Service (SARS)

and

for tax collection.

early

stages

to

of

the

company,

encourage

entrepreneurship;

angel

when

innovation investors;

crowdfunding. As the company starts to generate revenues, venture capital and bank loans become

I n t e r m s o f t h e m a i n t r e n d s a m o n g s t a r t - u p s, t h e

more important as sources of financing.

financial

sector,

information

technology,

consumer discretionary, communication services,

Funding, both in terms of the number of start-ups

tourism and healthcare are particularly relevant.

that are supported, and the total amount raised,

Both start-ups in these sectors and all other

has generally increased year on year, especially in

companies will be influenced by a process of

the last three periods, and 2022 is expected to be

digitalisation

a record year for South Africa. The ecosystem has

products with environmental characteristics.

and

an

increased

importance

of

a growing angel investor network, which needs to be stimulated, a small but established venture

South Africa is a country of opportunities, with

capital industry, and a nascent venture capital

experience

network. Venture capital investment in South

technological

Africa has experienced unprecedented growth in

geographical comparative advantage that can be

recent years. In 2022, an estimated €81 million

leveraged

was invested in 122 entities in 167 funding rounds,

priority destination for start-ups but needs to

12% more than in 2019.

take urgent steps to combat structural challenges.

in

for

successful

projects. success.

It It

has is

innovative

and

a

and

strategic

positioned

as

a

The country needs to become more competitive,

The fintech sector is the fastest growing sector,

boost infrastructure, improve skill levels and take

although the five sectors that attracted the most

advantage of existing opportunities.

investment by number of deals were software, financial

technology,

enterprise

products

and

services, consumer products and services, and healthcare.

Click here to read full report.

In order to boost the start-up ecosystem, South Africa

has

Mónica Olaso Ozaita.

a

variety

of

incubators

and

a c c e l e r a t o r s, s u c h a s B a n d w i d t h B a r n , t h e o l d e s t

-33-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 34

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A RECRUITMENT AGENCY? Polyglot Group It happened. Your best worker has handed in their resignation – the clock is ticking – the countdown is on. You need someone to replace them, but who? Where do you even begin?

The hiring process is a laborious task, depending

A recruiter being a third-party also helps you stay

on your industry, your candidate requirements,

realistic and can act as a time-keeper in a sense,

and the role; it can range from a week, to seven

letting you have a higher chance of getting the

months for c-level positions. In addition, there is

most qualified candidate. 57% of Australian HR

the added issue of it being a candidate-driven

managers concur, stating that a lengthy hiring

market. Candidates call the shots and it is up to

process has resulted in them losing a qualified

you to entice them.

candidate

to

another

opportunity.

Time

and

money are inextricably linked. It can be difficult,

There are many factors to consider when hiring.

even impossible, to balance one with the other in

You need to be aware of industry salary averages

the hiring process, without external help.

and expectations, you need to think about what more

Therefore, how does a recruitment agent help,

importantly, for your bottom line – how much

besides taking on those manual tasks? A way to

time can you dedicate to this process without

look at it is that a knight’s quest can at times be

hindering

no different to a fool’s errand. Clarity is what a

kind

of

candidate

your

you

want

company’s

and,

workflow

and

recruiter can help you find. There is always going

productivity?

to be a dream employee in your mind. However, if

You might turn to a recruitment agency. If we

you

stripped it to its bones, a recruitment agency

essential to your company and what would be an

cannot

differentiate

between

what

is

matches an employee to an employer. That’s in its

added-bonus, you are going to find yourself in

simplest form, however; a recruitment agency

one of two scenarios:

does so much more. The benefits include; time

A candidate who fits all the requirements on

saved, better alignment, competitive edge and

paper but does not suit the company culture

reach.

No candidate at all A recruiter helps you understand what is out

1. Time Saved

there in the market and what is essential to the

To get the best employee, you need to invest your time. As mentioned earlier, time can vary dramatically

depending

on

multiple

factors.

Whatever end of the spectrum you are on, time is going to be spent – you are in control of how much. The benefit of using a recruitment agency is

that

they

shoulders.

can

They

take

that

minimise

burden

time

spent

off

your

by

you,

undertaking the numerous and necessary tasks required to select an ideal candidate.

role, and what isn’t.

In addition, time is saved in regards to filtering. A recruiter plays as the middle-person who ensures that the candidates you see are closely aligned to what you require. With the average corporate job p o s t i n g r e c e i v i n g 2 5 0 r e s u m e s, i t ’ s n o t s u r p r i s i n g that

a

study

by

MRI

Network

found

that

unqualified, junk resumes from job boards were the most common issue for 23% of employers, when it came to finding qualified talent.

-34-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 35

2. Better Alignment

Another big benefit of using a recruitment agency

If I asked you to describe yourself, you wouldn’t

recruiter’s job hinges on connections and a large

be alone in struggling just a bit to figure out what

candidate pool. A recruiter’s connections can give

to say. However, if I asked you to describe a

you a competitive edge when attaining top talent.

colleague or a friend, you would more than likely

They can provide you with salary guides and give

have a much easier time describing them. An

you market insight so that your company can get

external point-of-view can help you identify and

the best talent – before other companies.

i s t h e k n o w l e d g e a n d c o n n e c t i o n s t h e y p o s s e s s. A

conceptualise what you and your company need.

Company culture is an incredibly important factor

In addition, C-level hiring is especially difficult

to

the

without a recruitment agency. C-level candidates

requirements, but if they can’t resonate with your

are one of the hardest groups to reach and to

company’s ethos or are unable to cooperate or fit

place. The candidates themselves don’t have time

in with their team, this will not be a sustaining

to actively job search, and it’s especially difficult

relationship.

for hirers to find and identify good ‘potential’ c-

consider.

Someone

could

have

all

level executives that aren’t at that level yet. It’s A

misalignment

between

your

brand

and

a

important to hire a candidate based on their

candidate is a serious issue. Values are extremely

history, leadership qualities, personality and their

important, they don’t need to match perfectly

ability to grow into the role. The higher and more

between employee and employer, but if they are

niche you go, the smaller the candidate pool

conflicting – it will be costly. According to the

becomes,

U.S. Department of Labor, the cost of a bad hiring

becomes to find the right talent.

and

consequently,

the

harder

it

decision could be up to 30% of the individual’s yearly potential earnings. A recruitment agency

Recruitment agencies have the ability to find

can prevent that misalignment from happening

t a l e n t t h a t i s n o t n e c e s s a r i l y o b v i o u s. H a v i n g a

through understanding your company and vetting

candidate that has years of successful experience

candidates.

in the c-level sphere in a different company does not necessarily make them a good fit for yours.

Recruitment

agencies

candidates viewed

prior

by

short-listing

company.

assess

This is supported by Ron Johnson’s (former Apple

them

to

Retail

CEO)

17-month

tenure

at

J C P e n n e y.

will

let

JCPenney needed in regards to revitalising their

recruiters assess a candidate’s competency for the

image, he was wholly unsuccessful. He failed to

role based on their previous experience. Secondly,

understand

skills

couldn’t

tests

and

an

two-step

be

Although on paper Johnson seemed to be what

firstly,

A

and

process

involves,

a

to

interview

interview

psychometric

which

assessments

are

employed. Psychometric assessments are designed to

measure

intellectual

capability

and

the

company’s

differentiate

culture,

between

brand his

and

Apple

customers and JCPenney consumers.

their

personality traits in relation to the position. This

A recruitment agency identifies a candidate’s

type of in-depth vetting exponentially increases

value and can take into account what they can

the chance of a better company fit.

o f f e r a s a m e a n s o f g r o w t h f o r y o u r c o m p a n y. A recruiter has the knowledge and time to consider that. Their connections with senior people in the

3. Competitive Edge

industry assist significantly in discovering hidden

We are in a candidate-driven market. Candidates have

the

upper-hand

which

leads

to

high

talent – talent that your competitors may not have considered, or even know about!

competition between companies. The pressure is on,

and

recruiters

can

help

significantly.

A c c o r d i n g t o Z i p p i a, 8 9 % o f a p p l i c a n t s a c c e p t a job faster when contacted by a recruiter.

-35-

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SOUTH AFRICA RESEARCH

PAGE 36

4. Reach

CONCLUSION

A big problem we have at the moment when it

I’m

comes

recruitment

to

hiring,

which

is

a

symptom

of

a

not

going

to

lie,

agency

is

the a

idea

of

using

contentious

a

topic,

candidate-driven market – is passive talent. So

controversial even. Everyone has an opinion, and

what do I mean by that? Passive talents are those

usually it’s either one extreme or the other, which

that are currently employed, not looking for

is usually spurred on by past experiences. As with

work, but would accept a good job offer. Not the

any industry, there are good and there are bad

easiest to find and they account for a massive 70%

apples.

of the market.

However,

it

must

However, they provide the most opportunity for

agencies

are

very

you. As they aren’t actively job searching, you

talent. They have a wealth of knowledge that can

won’t have to compete with other companies. A

be and should be utilised by your company. Their

recruiter

job is to find what you’re looking for and match it

can

significantly

help

with

reaching

someone

who

be

said

powerful

is

a

that tools

Good

recruitment in

Fit

attaining

those hidden talents . As it’s their job to be aware

with

of current and upcoming trends and news within

organisation. They are there to help. To not even

for

your

the industry, they will be able to source talent

consider a recruiter or agency to help you, you

that you may never have even considered.

are shutting the door to many possibilities – most that could have been an even better option for

In addition, recruiters within the industry have amassed

a

candidates.

massive As

pool

mentioned

of

your company.

high-quality

earlier,

a

good

recruitment agency establishes good, long-lasting relationships.

Having

someone,

in

this

case

a

recruiter, who already has a rapport with the candidate, you are more likely to reach them. We as humans don’t like to delve into the unknown; having a mutual acquaintance can be assuring, and makes us more likely to consider and accept an offer or at the very least, a meeting.

-36-

HAPPY FESTIVE SEASON! Thank you all for your support during 2022

Wishing you the best for 2023!

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

SCC INSIDER

BRIDGING SPANISH AND SOUTH AFRICAN BUSINESSES AND INSTITUTIONS.

www.spaincc.org Design by Jokin Bilbao, International Trade Advisor Intern

SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN SOUTH AFRICA