November 08, 2006 Edition 1
The Star Online
Thokozani Mtshali
Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has downplayed concerns about the country's labour laws and high crime rate at a meeting with international and local business people.
During a question-and-answer session in Sandton yesterday, she was asked about South Africa's "inflexible" labour laws, which some believe discouraged foreign investors. Business concerns about the tidal wave of crime were also raised.
But she downplayed these and instead listed at least six areas the government and some of its business partners saw as serious economic constraints that needed to be addressed.
Mlambo-Ngcuka said the provision of a competitive infrastructure and services, such as roads and railways, ports, electricity, communications and water, were some of the key areas that needed more focus.
The other important issues that business and government felt needed improved co-operation, she said, were the development of skills within the labour force; initiatives to develop the industrial sector into a more competitive environment; and better regulation of small and medium businesses.
Mlambo-Ngcuka told the business executives that South Africa was now a serious contender in the global economy alongside fellow developing countries such as India and Brazil, as well as China