CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA — South Africa’s business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, also known as the global business services (GBS) sector, is driving significant growth in jobs and export revenue.
Between January and June this year, the sector added 8,847 new jobs, contributing $142 million to export income, according to recent GBS Sector Job Creation reports by Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA), a non-profit organization supporting the sector.
Of these new positions, 60% are empowerment roles, with 88% filled by the country’s youth. The sector aims to create 500,000 new jobs by 2030, making it a critical player in addressing South Africa’s high unemployment rate.
BPESA CEO Reshni Singh stated, “The recent mid-term budget delivered by the minister of finance positioned economic recovery, growth and job creation as three key focus areas, and no doubt, as a sector we are attuned and well on track to supporting these critical objectives.”
Global investments highlight South Africa’s appeal
South Africa is ranked as the third most attractive offshoring destination worldwide, with major investments coming from the United States and the United Kingdom. Key industries serviced from South Africa include energy and utilities (30% of the new jobs), insurance (20%), and retail and e-commerce (14%), with a strong focus on digital skills essential for future growth.
BPESA is committed to fostering inclusive growth by reskilling and upskilling the workforce while focusing on social impact initiatives. This approach aims to create lifelong learning opportunities and stimulate local economies, particularly in areas like Gauteng’s township economy.
“We are on a mission to improve the lives of South Africans, while ensuring South Africa remains a desirable, key investment destination. By partnering with government and the private sector, we are focused on co-creation and collaboration in critical areas that will best serve the sector and country at large,” Singh stated.
