The OR Tambo SEZ, A Catalyst for Economic Transformation
The Gauteng Industrial Development Zone (GIDZ), trading as the OR Tambo International Airport Special Economic Zone (OR Tambo SEZ), is reshaping South Africa’s industrial and economic landscape from its strategic location at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA).
Designed to drive export-oriented, value-added manufacturing, the OR Tambo SEZ plays a critical role in advancing economic growth, strengthening industrial competitiveness, and positioning Gauteng as a gateway to global markets.
With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and resilience, the Zone fosters a business-enabling ecosystem where investors can thrive while contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s long-term economic development.
Beyond infrastructure and incentives, the OR Tambo SEZ is committed to inclusive growth. The Zone actively supports:
- Skills development and workforce readiness
- Job creation across priority sectors
- The integration of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into global value chains
As investors and businesses unlock the opportunities offered by the OR Tambo SEZ, they become part of a broader transformation agenda—one that uplifts communities, strengthens regional economies, and sets a benchmark for future Special Economic Zones across the African continent.
Value Proposition of the OR Tambo SEZ
Located at Africa’s largest and busiest airport, the OR Tambo SEZ enables export-driven, high-value manufacturing with direct access to global markets.
Purpose-built around OR Tambo International Airport’s world-class airfreight and logistics platform, the Zone is designed for industries where speed, reliability, and efficiency define competitiveness.
Why OR Tambo sez?
Global Connectivity
Immediate access to international air routes enables fast, secure export of high-value, lightweight, and time-sensitive goods.
Speed to Market
Integrated logistics and on-site customs significantly reduce lead times, supporting just-in-time production and global delivery.
Investor Incentives
Built for Global Trade
The OR Tambo SEZ strengthens the role of OR Tambo International Airport as a continental trade and logistics hub, supporting South Africa’s industrialisation and export-growth strategy while offering investors a globally competitive platform.
Sectors we Support
Advanced and precision manufacturing
Aerospace and aviation components
Electronics and high-tech manufacturing
Renewable energy technologies
High-value metal products
Perishable and time-critical goods, including fresh food
The or tambo sez's INCENTIVES
Value Added Tax Incentive
The VAT incentive provides for goods and services supplied by a VAT registered Vendor into the Customs Controlled Area (CCA) or SEZ to be zero-rated. In addition, goods exported from the SEZ are subject to exemption of the VAT.
Customs and Excise Relief
Goods imported into the CCA situated in the SEZ are relieved from applicable import customs, excise duties and economic restrictions whilst stored and undergoing manufacturing.
Employment Tax Incentive
The Employment Tax Incentive (ETI) helps reduce the amount of employees’ tax paid on behalf of their employees by the Employer, whilst leaving the wage received by the employee unaffected. Effectively this creates a cost-sharing mechanism between employers and Government in respect of employee wages.
Infrastructure Development Support
As an SEZ Operator, the GIDZ aims to provide top structure funding support for investments that can contribute to increased job opportunities as well as the enhanced production and export of products from OR Tambo SEZ to the global economy.
Competitive Rentals
The GIDZ’s lease management policy makes provision for competitive rental rates, negotiated with each investor, based on financial and market indications as well as the socio-economic benefits of the proposed investment.
Investor Establishment Support
Administrative support for all investors looking to locate at the Zone is provided; this includes support to foreign investors looking to register their businesses and also secure the necessary Visa or permit approvals.
Our Partners
