The South African Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industry Association (AMD) is celebrating its thirty-fifth anniversary. It is recognised as the only trade association for the South African defence industry and represents the sector on issues of mutual interest. It also promotes a profitable, responsible and sustainable industry and has been central in coordinating the sector’s priorities, engaging with government on policy and regulation, and augmenting competitiveness.

“Through sustained engagement with successive Ministers of Defence, Ministers of Trade and Industry, and chairpersons of the National Conventional Arms Control Committee, AMD has consistently advocated for regulatory certainty and efficient export control processes,” affirms AMD CEO Sandile Ndlovu.

Over the years, the association has taken part in national policy processes and structures, such as the Defence Review, the Aerospace and Defence Masterplan, the Public-Private Growth Initiative and the National Defence Industry Council. In so doing, it has helped bring industrial capabilities into line with national priorities. The result has been the creation of better collaboration pathways, better policy coherence and improved structuring of support for the development of the industry.

AMD also represents the sector in wider economic forums. These include Business Unity South Africa and the Centurion Aerospace Village.

A key development for the sector was the creation of the South African Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Export Council. This was set up in partnership with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. It is a formal and government-recognised platform to promote exports, widen access to global markets, and strengthen the sector’s global competitiveness.

“As AMD celebrates its 35-year anniversary, we remain committed to advocating for stable, predictable regulations; efficient and supportive export control processes; and the industrial conditions necessary for companies to invest, grow, innovate, and compete globally,” he highlighted. “AMD remains focused on building a resilient, high-tech, high-value defence industry that contributes meaningfully to job creation, technological capability and sustainable economic growth.”