The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has welcomed the recognition of South Africa’s automotive aftermarket as a significant contributor to the economy, following the opening address by Deputy Minister of Trade Industry and Competition, John Steenhuisen, at the CEO Breakfast at Automechanika Johannesburg 2026 at Gallagher Convention Centre today.
Addressing industry leaders, exhibitors and business representatives, Steenhuisen highlighted the aftermarket’s substantial economic contribution, noting that the retail and aftermarket economy traded approximately R933 billion in 2025, contributed R202.6 billion to GDP and supported more than 310,000 jobs – around 70% of total automotive employment. The sector encompasses more than 23,000 businesses, the overwhelming majority of which are small and medium-sized enterprises. He also highlighted its potential to drive localisation, job creation, exports and technical skills development.
These figures underscore the…
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