PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
20 May 2026
Unlocking the KZN South Coast Ocean Economy
The KZN South Coast is fast emerging as a dynamic hub within South Africa’s ocean economy, with the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise spotlighting the region’s vast, untapped potential across marine tourism, fisheries and boating industries.
With its warm Indian Ocean waters, diverse marine life and well established coastal infrastructure, the region presents a compelling opportunity for both tourism growth and maritime investment. From recreational ocean experiences to commercial fishing operations, the KZN South Coast offers a fully integrated value chain supported by licensed commercial and subsistence fishers, multiple launch sites and established wholesale distribution networks.
The abundance of fish species along this coastline not only sustains local livelihoods but also strengthens the region’s position as a viable and competitive maritime market. This creates opportunities for expansion in seafood processing, export markets, boat manufacturing and marine related services.
SCTIE notes that the ocean economy is a key driver in advancing inclusive economic growth, unlocking SMME participation and creating sustainable employment opportunities for coastal communities.
Dr. Sibiya said: “The KZN South Coast holds immense potential within the ocean economy, not only as a premier tourism destination but as a strategic investment hub. Our rich marine resources, combined with an established fishing and boating ecosystem, position the region for significant growth. We are actively working to unlock these opportunities in a way that benefits local communities, supports small businesses and attracts meaningful private sector investment.”
As global interest in sustainable ocean based economies continue to rise, the KZN South Coast is well positioned to capitalise on this momentum offering investors a unique blend of natural assets, existing infrastructure and strong institutional support.
SCTIE continues to drive initiatives that promote responsible ocean use while positioning the region as a leading coastal destination for both visitors and investors.
Unlock More Growth on the KZN South Coast!
Find out more about these and other investment options by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here.
To find out more about investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email oss@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za.
To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the online directory on the SCTIE website. To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form.
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Get in Touch
Find out more by downloading the Explore KZN South Coast app; visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here.
To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email mongezi@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za.
Follow the hashtags #unlockmore #unlockmoregrowth
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Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied.
High resolution images:
https://we.tl/t-Uq617Q0Qcfeo1m76
About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za.
Pitch Email: The KZN South Coast is poised for major investment with the launch of the national Small Harbours Development Programme, which includes Port Shepstone among its locations. According to South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), this catalytic project is anticipated to unlock the maritime and logistics sectors while driving growth across tourism, trade, and property development on the KZN South Coast.
For more information please contact:
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)
Cell: 039 682 7944
Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za