LSF operates with a focused mandate: to identify and address barriers to industrialisation through evidence-based research, industry engagement, and strategic interventions. Our approach ensures that localisation is not merely about import substitution but about scaling South African firms into competitive, high-growth markets.

​​

​

Strategic Priorities

We concentrate our efforts on high-impact sectors where South Africa has a "right to win"—sectors with strong localisation potential, industrial depth, and global competitiveness. These include:

• Automotive

• Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals

• Clothing, Textile, Footwear & Leather

• Critical Infrastructure (Energy & Water)

• Food & Beverages

• Furniture

• Green Transition Technologies

• Machinery & Electrical Components

​​

​

How We Drive Impact

• Industry Research & Feasibility Studies: Identifying high-value localisation opportunities.

• De-risking Investment: Supporting policy research, supplier development, and business case validation to attract funding.

• Technical Expertise Deployment: Closing capability gaps that hinder local competitiveness.

• Advocacy & Policy Alignment: Engaging government and industry to 

• shape an enabling localisation framework.

• Project Execution & Value Chain Strengthening: Ensuring that insights translate into action and measurable economic impact.