Toyota reaffirms commitment to Durban as partnership with eThekwini strengthens

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to long-term investment in Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal region.

This affirmation emerged during a high-level engagement between eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, and TSAM President and CEO, Andrew Kirby, aimed at enhancing cooperation on crucial infrastructure and economic development efforts.

The meeting centred around essential components for industrial growth, such as upgrades to road networks, ensuring a stable electricity supply, and improving water and sanitation infrastructure within the Prospecton Precinct, where TSAM operates its manufacturing facilities.

In a bid to bolster industrial activity in Prospecton, the municipality is investing over R450 million in various road infrastructure projects that are currently in different stages of implementation.

A significant water infrastructure upgrade is also underway, which involves replacing a 375mm asbestos cement pipeline with a new 400mm steel pipeline. This long-anticipated development is expected to markedly improve water supply to the area.

In light of recent flood damage, more than R120m has been allocated for the repair and upgrade of sewer networks and pump stations.

Moreover, the City has made substantial progress in refurbishing power substations that serve TSAM and the surrounding industrial landscape, ensuring a reliable source of electricity for operations.

Recognising TSAM as one of eThekwini’s most significant investors, Xaba emphasised the importance of their longstanding partnership, which has flourished over the past five decades.

"We are not taking this relationship lightly. That’s why we are committed to accelerating current infrastructure projects by shortening lead times for construction and repair work," Xaba said.

Xaba also assured TSAM of the city’s ongoing support, with a dedicated team led by the City Manager working closely with the automaker to tackle infrastructure challenges and provide regular progress updates.

Echoing the commitment to collaboration, TSAM President Andrew Kirby reiterated the company’s dedication to being an integral part of Durban’s economic future.

"Even after the catastrophic floods, it was never a consideration to leave Durban. The strength of our relationship with the city has always been a key factor," said Kirby.

TSAM currently contributes R18 billion in national taxes annually, with the municipality collecting over R6m in rates from the company each year.

This financial impact highlights the mutual benefit both TSAM and the city experience from their partnership.

BUSINESS REPORT