LSF Events
We host a series of industry roundtables, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and supporting the growth of local manufacturing in South Africa.
Developing the Sorghum Biofuel Value Chain in South Africa
27 May 2026
The Localisation Support Fund has commissioned a comprehensive research programme assessing the viability of establishing a domestic sorghum-based bioethanol industry in South Africa. Prepared by Blueprint Holdings (Pty) Ltd, the study draws on detailed financial modelling across six feedstock and technology configurations, value chain analysis, international benchmarking, and an integrated scenario model. The findings confirm that grain sorghum bioethanol represents one of the most compelling localisation opportunities available to South Africa's agricultural and energy sectors — strategically credible, technically proven, and closer to commercial viability than is commonly assumed.
Commercialisation Pathways for the Industrial Hemp Sector in South Africa
4 March 2026
The Localisation Support Fund (LSF), in partnership with the Presidency, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), commissioned a landmark study to assess the feasibility of building a competitive industrial hemp sector in South Africa. Conducted by Zageta Solutions together with the Development Policy Research Unit (DPRU) at the University of Cape Town (UCT), the study builds on previous work and aligns with the objectives of the National Cannabis Master Plan - translating its policy ambitions for industrial hemp into practical, implementable industry actions.
Reindustrialising Wool in South Africa: Evidence, Opportunities and Forging the Road Ahead
13 May 2026
The Localisation Support Fund has commissioned a feasibility study assessing the commercial viability of reindustrialising South Africa's wool value chain, with a specific focus on restoring early-stage processing capacity through scouring, combing and top-making. Prepared by WBH Consulting, the study draws on global value chain analysis, domestic market and supply diagnostics, stakeholder fieldwork across production, processing and retail, and conservative financial modelling. The findings confirm that early-stage wool beneficiation represents a commercially credible, export-oriented reindustrialisation pathway that can strengthen value retention and reinforce South Africa's position in global wool markets.
Feasibility of Garment Localisation under the R-CTFL Masterplan
11 February 2026
In support of South Africa’s industrialisation agenda and the objectives of the Retail–Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather (R-CTFL) Masterplan, the Localisation Support Fund (LSF) commissioned a comprehensive feasibility study to assess the potential for expanding local garment manufacturing and identify the practical steps required to unlock further localisation in the industry.
Commercial Feasibility of LFP Battery Cell Manufacturing in South Africa
18 March 2026
The Localisation Support Fund (LSF) has released a feasibility study confirming that South Africa is well positioned to establish a 5–10 GWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery cell gigafactory, supported by rapidly rising regional demand for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), strong mineral endowments, competitive production inputs, and growing policy alignment across the energy and industrial ecosystem.
Prepared by Ernst & Young Advisory Services (EY Parthenon), the study provides the first comprehensive commercial, technical, and policy assessment of whether South Africa can competitively manufacture LFP Battery cells at scale. It includes a deep analysis of market demand, supply chain readiness, site suitability, infrastructure requirements, midstream localisation potential, cost competitiveness, permitting timelines, skills availability, and incentive pathways.
