A Measured Outlook for 2026
It is a great pleasure to welcome our readers to the first edition of the Sassda Stainless Magazine for 2026. This time last year, our perspective on the year ahead was somewhat bleak. The South African industry had little confidence that uninterrupted energy supply would become a reality. There was mistrust in political ability and will, the economy did not look healthy, and then Donald Trump turned the apple cart over with his trade measures.
Since then, our gloomy outlook has shifted somewhat. While the world remains in turmoil, we see Eskom sitting with surplus energy, albeit at a very high cost to consumers. It seems the GNU is doing good work, interest rates are lower, the rand is stronger, and the economic forecast for the country is slowly improving. Against this backdrop Sassda has still faced its fair share of hurdles. We recently bid farewell to one of our founding members, Columbus Stainless, which has left the association due to strategic differences. While this marks the end of a long-standing relationship, we respect their decision and acknowledge the incredible role they have played in the development of the South African stainless steel industry. In light of this, Sassda initiated a strategic planning process for the stainless steel industry at the end of 2025, beginning with a stakeholder consultation session in January 2026. The engagement provided valuable input and helped shape the direction for the industry going forward.
Alongside this work, the association continues to expand the products and services available to members. This includes new trade-related initiatives and training programmes designed to support local manufacturers and stimulate demand for stainless steel products produced in South Africa.
Overall, the association remains focused on identifying and maximising opportunities for members to grow local consumption, increase value addition and support job creation. At the same time, we are reminded that the strength of this industry lies in the people who have helped build it. We were therefore deeply saddened by the passing of Lesley Squires in December 2025.
Lesley was a long-time champion of the South African stainless steel industry and contributed tirelessly to its growth over many decades. Her passion and commitment will be remembered by the many people who had the privilege of working alongside her.
With this type of contribution in mind, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our members and industry associates for their ongoing support, underpinned by the understanding, that our strength in numbers.
Michel Basson, Sassda Executive Director