BLSA

Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) is an association of chief executives and chairpersons of South Africa's largest corporations and multinationals operating in the country. The organisation represents businesses across all sectors of the economy, with member companies collectively accounting for a substantial share of South Africa's gross domestic product, tax revenue and formal employment. BLSA's mandate is to engage government, labour and civil society on policy and economic issues affecting business and the broader economy. The organisation advocates for growth-friendly policies, regulatory reform, infrastructure investment and improved governance. It participates in national forums such as the National Economic Development and Labour Council and engages directly with the Presidency, Cabinet and Parliament. BLSA has been vocal on issues including energy security, local government functionality, skills development, transformation and the rule of law. The organisation is led by a chief executive and governed by a board drawn from its membership. It succeeded Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) as the primary voice of big business in South Africa, though BUSA continues to represent a broader business constituency. BLSA's influence stems from the economic weight of its members and its access to senior political leadership. The organisation has committed member companies to initiatives on youth employment, infrastructure development and support for small enterprises.