Atlantis SEZ marks turning point in green industrialisation with first factory and completed infrastructure
Staff Writer
The Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) has taken a decisive step in its journey to becoming a hub of sustainable industry, breaking ground on its first factory while formally completing core infrastructure for Zone 1 — a milestone hailed as the opening chapter of a new industrial frontier on the Cape’s west coast.
Funded by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), the completed civil works — which include water, sewerage and electricity networks, access roads, street lighting, CCTV, and landscaping — signal that ASEZ is officially open for business. Fourteen local SMMEs were contracted for the project, with 444 jobs created so far.
Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield, addressing the launch ceremony, framed the development as an emblem of state-led stimulus unlocking private-sector energy. “Today we celebrate not only the physical groundwork but also the economic groundwork being laid for a sustainable industrial future,” he said.
While absent from the event, Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Dr Ivan Meyer, welcomed the news in a message, noting: “The successful completion of civil infrastructure and the first investor build represent the type of economic momentum we are working to accelerate—sustainable, inclusive, and aligned with the green economy.”
The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos praised the ASEZ team for “unlocking real opportunities for local communities” and positioning Atlantis as “a hub for advanced, sustainable manufacturing”.
The sod-turning also launched construction of the Zone’s first investor facility — a R30 million manufacturing plant by Quantum V3 Holdings, trading as Iconic Gases. Once operational, the factory will supply medical-grade oxygen, acetylene, and other gases to hospitals, industrial fabricators, and bottling plants across the region. Its nine-month build will incorporate solar energy, sustainable construction materials like hempcrete, and water efficiency systems.
Quantum V3 owner Dr Dean Pillay described the venture as part of “a shared vision to drive industrial innovation, job creation, and sustainability,” underlining the firm’s commitment to clean gas solutions with both medical and industrial applications.
As part of ASEZ’s Living Lab initiative, Iconic Gases will also distribute its lime by-product to neighbouring industries at minimal cost — a model of circular economy that enhances regional resilience.
ASEZ CEO Matt Cullinan called the dual milestone “a very proud moment in our journey,” positioning the SEZ as “a catalyst for green industrialisation and inclusive growth”.
With a pipeline of investors and an emphasis on partnerships, the Atlantis SEZ is positioning itself not merely as an industrial zone — but as a blueprint for South Africa’s low-carbon, high-impact industrial future.