KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala has hailed the launch of a new factory and distribution centre in the province by LS Electronics South Africa as a huge investment that will boost the local economy and translate to the wellbeing of workers.
Zikalala was speaking during the official opening of the LG Electronics factory and distribution centre at the Cornubia Industrial Park in Durban on Friday.
The ceremony was attended by LG South Africa President Deuk Soo Ahn, LG MEA President James Lee, the Ambassador from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea Jong Dae Park, senior government officials and dignitaries from LEG’s MEA regional headquarters.
“We want to thank LG Electronics for locating themselves in KwaZulu-Natal. This will grow opportunities for jobs but this will also grow opportunities for those who are in the value chain. We also commit to ensuring that the companies that are based in the province are assisted to grow because we have to work with them to ensure so that they enlarge their market. And we have to assist them to get through the African market as a whole and be able to service the whole of the continent of Africa. We quite value the opening of this manufacturing plant because it adds to job creation,” said Zikalala.
The Premier applauded LG Electronic’s decision to open a factor in the province and wished the company success. He also promised that the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government will provide LG Electronics with the support it needs to grow its investment in the province.
“It gives me immense pleasure to welcome LG’s decision to set up a factory in our province of KwaZulu-Natal. As the government we wish the company success, growth and prosperity. And surely their success will translate the wellbeing and prosperity of workers and the local economy. We applaud LG for their decision and we’re truly humbled by the vote of confidence to the economy of the province. Our province is determined to continue implementing multi-pronged interventions to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal remains attractive to inward investments,” said Zikalala.
Jong Dae Park, the ambassador of Korea to the Republic of South Africa, said LG Electronics had decided to open a factory in Durban because it had all the factors to support the expansion of the business because of its strategic location and favourable weather conditions.
“Also because of the support by the Honourable Premier of the Province and all the local leadership and because this is an important province. So we believe that this will really help LG grow its businesses and facilitate its sale and also export to other African countries. And I think there is still more to come and this is just the beginning,” he said.
LG MEA President James Lee said moving the LG factory and distribution centre to Cornubia was one example of how LG South Africa was implementing change for growth.
“KwaZulu-Natal, through the Dube Trade Port, is an attractive destination for export-oriented technology production such our innovative products. We also see Durban as an emerging economic hub in the country. In the move to this location, we do not only improve efficiencies, but are better positioned to further growth and possible future expansion,” he said.
He added that the Durban factory will not only serve as a manufacturing point for the local market but also for export markets to neighbouring countries such as Mauritius, Mozambique and Reunion.
“We’re positive about the future in South Africa and opportunities within the wider SADEC region and I know that as a subsidiary, LG South Africa is geared for growth. We would like to partner with you as government and local chamber of commerce to grow with us, to help you grow the provincial and national economy and build a profitable industry. I offer you my support to achieve this goal,” said Lee.
LG South Africa President Deuk Soo Ahn said the factory is a facility, due to its location, strategically positions the company to grow and extend its range of products and services in South Africa.
“Durban is the chief seaport for South Africa, and is considered to be a major manufacturing hub in the country – which makes this move one that helps LG to be better geared for growth. We are happy to now also contribute economically to the beautiful city of Durban and the KZN region in this move,” he said.
LG Electronics, one of the leading brands in Information Display and Commercial TV solutions and which has operated in the country for 23 years, currently employs around 500 people across its business subsections.
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KZN Provincial Government Spokesperson
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