Johannesburg, South Africa: 31 March 2026 – As geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to place pressure on global trade routes, energy prices and logistics systems, African manufacturers are once again facing the realities of external shocks on production, pricing and supply chain stability.
Drawing parallels with the Gulf War, which significantly disrupted global oil markets and increased input costs for emerging economies, today’s environment reinforces a critical lesson: Africa’s manufacturing sector remains vulnerable to global instability where reliance on imported energy, raw materials and components persists.
These dynamics are expected to take centre stage at the Manufacturing Indaba 2026, where industry leaders, policymakers and investors will gather to address the continent’s most pressing industrial challenges.
Recent volatility in shipping routes and fuel costs has already begun to impact manufacturers across Africa, with rising logistics expenses, delayed deliveries and increasing pressure on margins — particularly in sectors such as FMCG, chemicals, packaging and consumer goods.
“The current geopolitical landscape is a stark reminder that African manufacturing must accelerate its shift toward resilience and self-sufficiency,” says Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Indaba. “The lessons from past global conflicts remain highly relevant today — diversification of supply chains, localisation of inputs and investment in regional manufacturing capacity are no longer optional, they are essential.”
The Manufacturing Indaba 2026 will provide a critical platform to explore these challenges and identify practical solutions. Key discussions will focus on:
- Strengthening local and regional supply chains
- Reducing dependency on imported raw materials and inputs
- Managing cost pressures in an inflationary environment
- Leveraging industrial policy to support localisation and growth
- Building resilience through innovation and Industry 4.0 technologies
With a strong emphasis on sectors such as FMCG and consumer-driven manufacturing, the event will enable businesses to engage directly with suppliers, technology providers and partners who can support more sustainable and cost-effective production models.
As Africa advances its industrialisation agenda under frameworks such as the AfCFTA, the ability to withstand global disruptions will be a defining factor in long-term competitiveness. The Manufacturing Indaba remains a cornerstone platform for driving these conversations — bringing together the stakeholders who are shaping the future of manufacturing on the continent.
