Business
R120 Billion Offshore Investment Set to Create 200,000 Jobs in South Africa
Offshore growth reshaping South Africa’s economy
South Africa is fast becoming a global hub for offshore business services. A new report by recruitment firm Robert Walters forecasts that international companies will pour R120 billion into the economy through offshoring by 2030. This expansion is expected to generate more than 200,000 skilled jobs in the next five years.
Currently, the sector contributes about R76 billion. By the end of the decade, its share of GDP could rise from 1.07% to 1.6%. It is a clear sign that South Africa is shifting from being seen as a low-cost base to a centre of capability and high-value expertise.
Why global companies are choosing South Africa
International executives already rank South Africa as the top destination for offshoring. Strong English proficiency, a near-identical time zone to Europe, and growing expertise in finance, technology, and business services are among the factors driving growth.
Phill Brown, Head of Market Intelligence at Robert Walters, highlighted that the sector is now about quality and resilience rather than just cost savings. This has led to more complex functions, such as auditing, financial analysis, IT management, and digital transformation, being handled locally.
The global pull of South African talent
South African professionals are not only powering offshore growth at home but are also being headhunted abroad. Emirates airline is currently recruiting over 200 IT specialists from South Africa, while countries such as Canada, Germany, the UK, and the UAE are actively seeking local talent in healthcare, engineering, IT, and education.
Recruiters note that young South Africans are especially in demand, often attracted by global opportunities, higher salaries, and lifestyle factors.
Opportunity and risk
The boom in offshore investment offers a double-edged sword. On one side, it promises thousands of jobs and billions in revenue. On the other, it risks a talent drain as skilled workers leave for overseas roles.
David Barr, CEO of Outsourcing at Robert Walters, summed it up by saying South Africa’s strength lies in offering “both scale and sophistication.” It is this balance that has made the country attractive for global companies and also tempting for nations battling skills shortages.
Looking ahead
If the projections hold, offshoring will not just create jobs but could redefine South Africa’s role in the global economy. The challenge will be retaining enough talent locally to meet both domestic demand and the expanding needs of international partners.
For now, though, the R120 billion forecast represents one of the most encouraging economic stories of 2025, offering hope to workers and businesses alike.
Also read: South Africa’s Business Confidence Stalls as Trade Tariffs and Costs Bite
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: Business Tech
Featured Image: BusinessDay
