Machine Tools Africa exhibition

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IBG - SA Instrumentation & Control Buyers' Guide

March 2024 News

Africa’s biggest machine tools exhibition is taking place from 21-24 May 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec. It will be showcasing cutting-edge developments across the machine tool and related industries, and also the very latest global machine tool technology. It will also highlight the importance of local suppliers and their international manufacturing partners.

The exhibition is seen as an important and relevant platform where buyers and sellers can meet face-to-face in a relaxed informal environment. At the previous show, 87% of visitors went there in search of new products and solutions, and to learn about the latest technologies and trends.

At this year’s show, visitors can expect to see a wide range of products. They will range from machinery and tooling to control systems, robotics, design, accessories, and everything that twists, turns, rotates, cuts, forms, bends or shapes. Senior purchasing decision makers will have the opportunity to find what they need to take their manufacturing processes to the next level.

Machine tool industry outlook

Speaking at the recent Machine Tool Merchants Association AGM, chairperson Joanne Canossa described the past year as a high-speed rollercoaster for the industry. It is recognised that machine tools are a key driver in various sectors such as manufacturing, fabrication, engineering, and construction, and play a part in the country’s economic growth.

Canossa explained that while the industry enjoyed a growth of 20,7% during 2023 up until Q3 compared to the previous year, there was a weakening demand for machinery and equipment during the latter part of the year, due in part to reduced manufacturing production in South Africa. The decline was largely a consequence of the country suffering the worst loadshedding on record during September.

“We are faced with local and global challenges, and as key players in the industry we need to understand the magnitude of this impact and how we can mitigate any risks for the future,” advises Canossa.

Machine Tools Africa exhibition and its support to industry

Canossa believes Machine Tools Africa will be a great step towards the recovery and upgrading of local manufacturing businesses in South Africa, with advanced technology, software and automation making more of an appearance at the show.

“Industry players have an opportunity to highlight technological advancements, and also to show how technological infrustructure for human-machine collaboration can streamline processes and improve high-level decision making,” says Canossa. “It will be very exciting to see how our members and other companies utilise this platform to target and entice the manufacturing sector.”

Education and skills development remain central to South Africa’s steel industry. Training and development of competent skilled staff has become a concern to the growth of the sector. World Skills South Africa will be participating at Machine Tools Africa to highlight its work in this area and to promote the much-lacking vocational training in our country.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to listen to industry experts speaking at the free seminars, sharing their knowledge and experience across a wide range of important and current industry topics.

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