partinform
| by Tristan Wiggill
Zambia plays its part
View Partinform video on
www.abrbuzz.co.za
aBr and a large South African aftermarket contingent packed
their bags and hightailed it to the Chinese-built New Government
Complex in Lusaka, Zambia, for the inaugural Auto Africa Automotive
Aftermarket Conference and Exhibition in late August.
➲ The Eastern built and Western spelt
entrance to the New Government Complex
A
uto Africa 2014 was held alongside
Partinform Zambia, which lent
the two-day event an important
educational and training aspect. When it
comes to imparting aftermarket product
knowledge, no destination is too far - or
too informed - to receive and benefit from
the right parts, right fitment message.
Africa awaits
During the conference we heard that
despite obvious challenges, Africa holds
much hope for just about every industry
imaginable. Africa is said to be the next
growth frontier, with above average
growth prospects. The continent
comprises 54 countries with a population
of more than 1 billion people, annual
GDP growth of 5% and current consumer
spending of close to $1 trillion annually.
➲ The Buk stopped at this stand
But the automotive manufacturing
industry is capital intensive and requires
stable long term policies.
➲ aBr “textbooks” were hand delivered
Economies of scale are critical,
with large economies better
placed than small
economies.
➲ Tracker presented a compelling case
| words in action
While the fo rmer can implement
completely knocked down vehicle
production, smaller economies
should consider semi-knocked down
assembly. Either way, the automotive
industry will always be based on an
intelligent partnership between vehicle
manufacturers and government.
The economic benefits of the automotive
industry are greatest if programmes
are introduced to incentivise vehicle
and component manufacturing and a
high quality aftermarket and dealership
infrastructure. Quality control and
affordable vehicle finance are also
important.
Logistics remain important in the
automotive industry value chain. Current
efforts to improve transportation systems
should continue. Additionally, automotive
manufacturing requires competitive
electricity and reliable supply to be able
to compete globally. The development
of the automotive industry is best
achieved through a partnership approach
and offers interesting opportunities for
African economies to cooperate within an
industrial sector.
➲ The Captains pose
34
october 2014