South Africa’s Tool, Die & Mould (TDM) industry sits at the core of manufacturing capability, enabling production across sectors ranging from automotive and packaging to consumer goods, aerospace, electronics and industrial equipment. Yet despite its strategic importance, the industry has faced increasing pressure over the past two decades from global competition, technological disruption, declining manufacturing investment and shifting market dynamics.
To better understand these challenges – and more importantly, identify practical solutions and strategic opportunities for growth – PtSA commissioned a comprehensive strategic review of the South African TDM sector, compiled by Prof. Justin Barnes and Mr. Sean Ellis of African Industrialisation Services (AIS). The report, Moulding a Better Future: PtSA Strategy Report, provides the first major strategic review of the industry since the landmark FRIDGE study of 2006.
Understanding the Challenges and the Way Forward
Developed through extensive research, data analysis and stakeholder engagement across South Africa, the report examines the current state of the local TDM sector within the broader context of global manufacturing, automotive transformation, technological advancement and future industrial trends.
Importantly, the report goes beyond identifying industry constraints. It presents ten strategic actions and practical recommendations aimed at strengthening competitiveness, deepening localisation, advancing transformation, building skills capacity and positioning the industry for long-term growth and sustainability.
The report highlights several key realities shaping the sector, including intensified international competition, changing automotive demand, the shift toward New Energy Vehicles, and the growing importance of advanced manufacturing technologies and digital transformation.
A Roadmap for Industry Action
This report is more than an assessment of where the industry stands today. It is a strategic roadmap designed to guide industry action and support informed decision-making across the South African manufacturing landscape.
By combining industry insight with actionable recommendations, the report provides a foundation for stronger collaboration between industry, government, education and manufacturing stakeholders – with the shared goal of building a more competitive, resilient and future-ready TDM sector.
PtSA invites all stakeholders across the tooling, manufacturing and industrial development ecosystem to review the findings, explore the proposed strategic actions, and contribute toward shaping the future of South African manufacturing.
