Top 10 Light Manufacturing Hubs in Africa in 2025

In Summary

• In 2025, Africa's manufacturing sector is projected to have a value-added output of $77.66 billion and a total output of $284.70 billion.
• In 2025, Africa's light manufacturing sector is showing varied performance across regions and countries. North Africa leads in manufacturing value added, with countries like Egypt and Morocco having well-established industrial bases.
• South Africa leads Africa’s light manufacturing sector, driven by a diversified industrial base in automotive, electronics, and textiles, government incentives like the $54 million EV stimulus, and advanced Industry 4.0 technologies that boost efficiency, exports, and job creation.

Deep Dive!!

Africa’s light manufacturing sector has experienced unprecedented growth over the past decade, positioning the continent as an increasingly attractive destination for both domestic and foreign investors. Light manufacturing refers to industries such as textiles, electronics, automotive assembly, agro-processing, and consumer goods production, and is contributing an estimated 18–22% of the industrial GDP in leading African economies. This growth is fueled by rapid urbanization, rising domestic consumption, and targeted government policies that incentivize industrial parks, skill development, and technology adoption. Countries like South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt have become regional leaders, producing goods not only for local markets but also for export destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

The expansion of light manufacturing in Africa is closely tied to infrastructure development and policy reforms aimed at reducing production costs and improving competitiveness. Industrial zones, export processing hubs, and special economic zones are now common in countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda, attracting billions in foreign direct investment (FDI) as discussed in our article titled ‘Top 10 Development Finance Institutions (DFI) in Africa 2025’. As part of the progress in the country, Ethiopia plans to have thirty operational industrial parks by the end of 2025, while Morocco’s Tangier Automotive City supports an annual production of 700,000 vehicles. These developments are complemented by improvements in energy reliability, transport logistics, and digital adoption in manufacturing processes, allowing African hubs to match international quality standards and efficiently scale production for global markets.

Beyond production and exports, Africa’s emerging light manufacturing hubs are also creating significant employment and technological spillovers. The sector is generating hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs, particularly in automotive, agro-processing, and electronics industries, while also fostering a new generation of skilled labor and technical expertise. Governments are increasingly integrating innovation clusters, vocational training, and data-driven industrial planning into their strategies, enabling countries like South Africa and Egypt to leverage technology in production optimization and quality assurance. As a result, Africa is not only increasing its manufacturing output but also enhancing value-added capabilities, making the continent a vital player in the global supply chain by 2025.

Here are the top 10 light manufacturing hubs in Africa in 2025. Check them out!

Morocco

Morocco has emerged as Africa's largest automotive producer, transforming its economy into a regional manufacturing powerhouse. With an annual production of approximately 700,000 vehicles, the country now surpasses major Asian competitors like China and Japan in exports to European markets. This rapid growth is underpinned by strategic government policies, including tax incentives, industrial subsidies, and investment in specialized automotive zones such as the Tangier Automotive City and Casablanca Free Zone. These zones offer manufacturers streamlined logistics, reliable energy access, and proximity to ports, which together reduce production costs and enhance competitiveness in global markets.

The Moroccan automotive sector contributes roughly 22% to the country’s industrial GDP and generates around $14 billion in annual exports. Key global automotive players such as Renault, Stellantis, and Peugeot have established assembly and manufacturing plants, creating over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs. The presence of these multinationals has catalyzed the development of a local supply chain, including component suppliers, tool manufacturers, and logistics providers, boosting domestic industrial capabilities. Morocco’s success also stems from investments in workforce training and vocational programs, ensuring that employees meet the technical standards required by international automotive brands.

Looking forward, Morocco aims to expand its footprint in the electric vehicle (EV) segment and advanced mobility technologies. Several initiatives, including partnerships with EV manufacturers and R&D centers, are underway to position the country as a hub for sustainable automotive production. The government is also investing in innovation clusters to attract foreign direct investment in emerging automotive technologies, including battery production and smart manufacturing. By leveraging infrastructure, policy incentives, and a skilled workforce, Morocco is not only securing its leadership in African light manufacturing but also strengthening its strategic role as a critical supplier to European automotive markets.

Tunisia

Tunisia has established itself as a prominent light manufacturing hub in North Africa, with a strong presence in textiles, electronics, and food processing. The country’s well-developed industrial infrastructure, particularly in regions like Sfax, Sousse, and Tunis, provides manufacturers with efficient transport networks, energy supply, and industrial zones. Light manufacturing contributes significantly to Tunisia’s GDP, accounting for nearly 10% of total economic output, and remains a key driver of employment for the country’s growing workforce. Strategic government policies, including investment incentives, tax breaks, and export facilitation programs, have attracted both domestic entrepreneurs and foreign investors to expand production capabilities.

A major advantage for Tunisia is its proximity to European markets, which allows for cost-effective export of finished goods. The textile and apparel sector, in particular, has thrived due to preferential trade agreements with the EU, skilled labor availability, and adoption of modern manufacturing technologies such as automated sewing and precision cutting systems. Electronics manufacturing is also growing, with companies specializing in assembly, testing, and export of consumer electronics components. By integrating technology and process innovation, Tunisian manufacturers have increased productivity and product quality, allowing them to compete effectively on international markets.

Tunisia’s light manufacturing sector is further supported by government-driven training programs and vocational education initiatives aimed at equipping the workforce with technical skills. Coupled with investments in research and development, these efforts enable manufacturers to implement modern production methods, improve operational efficiency, and expand into higher-value products. Looking forward, Tunisia’s strategic focus on sustainable industrial growth, technology adoption, and export diversification positions the country as a resilient and competitive light manufacturing hub in Africa, with potential for further growth and global integration.

Ghana

Ghana is emerging as a competitive light manufacturing hub in West Africa, with a strong focus on technology-driven production, agri-processing, and consumer goods. The government’s “One District, One Factory” initiative has been pivotal in driving localized industrial growth, encouraging investment in small and medium-scale manufacturing enterprises across the country. Strategic infrastructure projects, including industrial parks in Tema, Kumasi, and Takoradi, provide manufacturers with reliable power, logistics, and water resources, making Ghana increasingly attractive to both domestic and foreign investors. By 2025, Ghana’s manufacturing sector contributes approximately 8% to GDP, with light manufacturing serving as a significant driver of employment and export revenue.

A major strength of Ghana’s light manufacturing sector is its integration with the agriculture value chain. Agro-processing facilities convert locally produced raw materials such as cocoa, cassava, and maize into finished products for both domestic consumption and export. By linking smallholder farmers with processing plants, Ghana has increased the added value of its agricultural produce while creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Companies are also adopting advanced production technologies, including automated processing lines and inventory tracking systems, to enhance efficiency, quality, and market competitiveness, which further positions Ghana as a regional manufacturing leader.

Ghana’s strategic geographic location on the West African coast offers seamless access to the ECOWAS market and international shipping lanes, making it an ideal hub for export-oriented manufacturing. The country has also benefited from partnerships with international investors, who bring capital, expertise, and access to global supply chains. With continued investment in industrial infrastructure, technical skills development, and technology adoption, Ghana is on track to expand its light manufacturing footprint, strengthen export capacity, and become a leading destination for investment in Africa’s industrial sector over the next decade.

Rwanda

Rwanda is rapidly emerging as a light manufacturing hub in East Africa, leveraging government-led industrialization strategies and strategic investments in infrastructure. The country’s Vision 2050 plan emphasizes industrial transformation, with light manufacturing, particularly textiles, apparel, and agro-processing at the forefront. Government-backed initiatives such as the Kigali Special Economic Zone provide investors with ready-to-use factory spaces, tax incentives, and streamlined regulatory procedures, reducing entry barriers for both local and foreign investors. As of 2025, Rwanda has attracted over 40 foreign manufacturing companies, primarily from China, Turkey, and India, who are focused on producing export-oriented goods for regional and global markets.

Job creation is a central pillar of Rwanda’s industrialization strategy, with light manufacturing playing a critical role in reducing youth unemployment. Industrial zones like the Kigali Special Economic Zone are designed to employ thousands of workers, while technical training programs equip the workforce with skills in production management, quality control, and supply chain logistics. The government’s collaboration with international development partners ensures that manufacturing operations meet global quality standards, enhancing the competitiveness of Rwandan products. By investing in human capital alongside infrastructure, Rwanda is building a sustainable light manufacturing ecosystem capable of long-term growth.

Rwanda’s light manufacturing sector is increasingly integrated into regional and global supply chains, positioning the country as a rising exporter of textiles and processed agricultural goods. Exports to the East African Community (EAC) and beyond have been growing steadily, supported by preferential trade agreements and investment in logistics infrastructure, including road and rail networks connecting production hubs to ports. Additionally, the adoption of technology in production, quality tracking, and inventory management is helping companies optimize efficiency and reduce operational costs. With continued policy support, foreign investment, and skilled workforce development, Rwanda is poised to establish itself as a key light manufacturing hub in Africa over the next decade.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia has emerged as one of Africa’s most ambitious industrialization stories, strategically investing in light manufacturing to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on agriculture. The government has allocated $1.3 billion toward developing industrial parks, with plans to establish thirty fully operational parks by 2025. These parks, such as the Hawassa Industrial Park and Mekelle Industrial Park, are designed to support export-oriented industries, particularly textiles, apparel, leather products, and agro-processing. The Ethiopian Investment Commission reports that industrial parks have attracted over 80 foreign investors from countries including China, India, Turkey, and South Korea, signaling the country’s growing appeal as a manufacturing destination. By providing ready-to-use facilities, tax incentives, and streamlined logistics, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a low-cost, high-efficiency hub for light manufacturing in East Africa.

The expansion of Ethiopia’s industrial parks is closely tied to job creation and skills development, addressing one of the country’s critical socio-economic challenges: youth unemployment. Each park is designed to employ tens of thousands of workers, with the Hawassa Industrial Park alone creating over 50,000 direct jobs since its inception. Workforce training programs, often supported by international partners, focus on modern production techniques, quality control, and supply chain management, ensuring that employees can meet global standards. This systematic approach not only strengthens operational efficiency but also enhances the marketability of Ethiopian products abroad, boosting export potential and foreign exchange earnings.

Ethiopia’s commitment to light manufacturing is also reflected in its export performance and integration into global value chains. The textile and apparel sector has become a significant source of foreign revenue, with exports to the U.S. and European markets under preferential trade agreements like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the European Union’s Everything But Arms (EBA) initiative. Industrial parks are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions, including automated production lines and data-based inventory management systems, which improve productivity and reduce operational risk. With continued government support, infrastructure development, and FDI inflows, Ethiopia is projected to maintain double-digit growth in its light manufacturing sector, solidifying its position as one of Africa’s most promising manufacturing hubs.

Kenya

Kenya is rapidly positioning itself as a regional hub for light manufacturing, leveraging a combination of urbanization, infrastructure development, and targeted industrial policies. The country’s manufacturing sector contributes approximately 10% to GDP, with light manufacturing, including LED lighting, plastics, agro-processing, and building materials playing a growing role. The LED lighting industry, in particular, has seen robust growth, driven by rising energy efficiency standards, urban electrification projects, and the government’s investment in public lighting initiatives. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the domestic demand for LED lighting products has grown by an average of 15% annually over the past five years, reflecting both residential adoption and large-scale infrastructure projects such as street lighting in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.

Government policy and investment frameworks have further accelerated Kenya’s emergence as a light manufacturing hub. The establishment of special economic zones, such as the Konza Technopolis and Athi River Industrial Park, has attracted foreign and local investors by offering tax incentives, streamlined licensing procedures, and access to modern utilities. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have been central in scaling production and distribution networks, particularly in the energy-efficient lighting sector. Additionally, Kenya’s strategic position as an East African logistics gateway enables manufacturers to export goods to neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda efficiently, further strengthening the country’s regional manufacturing footprint.

Technological adoption is increasingly reshaping Kenya’s light manufacturing competitiveness. Manufacturers are integrating automation, smart quality control systems, and data-driven production planning to optimize costs and meet growing standards for energy efficiency and environmental compliance. The agro-processing sector complements this growth, with mechanized processing and packaging increasing export readiness for products such as tea, coffee, and horticultural produce. With continued urban expansion, rising electricity access, and proactive industrial policies, Kenya is expected to see annual growth in light manufacturing of 8–10% over the next five years, making it a key player in Africa’s emerging industrial landscape.

Egypt

Egypt stands as one of Africa’s most diversified manufacturing economies, with light manufacturing forming a cornerstone of its industrial base. The sector includes automotive assembly, textiles, food processing, consumer electronics, and packaging, contributing approximately 14% to Egypt’s GDP. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS), Egypt accounts for the largest share of manufacturing value added in Africa, reflecting the country’s long-standing investment in industrial infrastructure and skilled labor. The automotive sector alone produces over 120,000 vehicles annually, with exports to North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, positioning Egypt as a regional hub for vehicle assembly and parts production. Textile manufacturing, especially cotton and synthetic fabrics, supports both domestic consumption and exports, contributing significantly to employment and foreign exchange earnings.

Government-led initiatives have accelerated the growth of Egypt’s light manufacturing sector. Programs such as the “Industrial Modernization Program” and the establishment of industrial zones like the 10th of Ramadan and Borg El Arab have created clusters for efficient production and logistics. These zones offer tax incentives, streamlined regulatory procedures, and improved utilities, attracting both foreign and domestic investors. In addition, Egypt has pursued trade agreements such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and agreements with the European Union, enabling local manufacturers to access larger regional and international markets. FDI inflows into manufacturing reached $1.8 billion in 2023, with significant investments in automotive, packaging, and electronics, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s industrial policies.

Technological adoption and innovation are increasingly shaping Egypt’s light manufacturing competitiveness. Companies are integrating automation, digital tracking, and quality control systems to increase efficiency and reduce production costs. Agro-processing is also a major focus, with Egyptian firms leveraging mechanized milling, cold storage, and value-added packaging to serve domestic and export markets. According to CAPMAS, processed food exports grew by 12% annually over the past five years, driven by both scale and quality improvements. With a combination of robust infrastructure, strategic geographic location bridging Africa and the Middle East, and ongoing policy support, Egypt is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in Africa’s light manufacturing sector.

Nigeria

Nigeria has emerged as Africa’s third-largest manufacturing economy, with light manufacturing playing a central role in its industrial growth. The sector spans agro-processing, consumer goods, textiles, cement, and packaging industries, providing critical employment for over 2.5 million people. In 2024, the manufacturing sector contributed roughly 10% to Nigeria’s GDP, with light manufacturing accounting for more than 60% of total industrial output. Nigeria’s vast domestic market of over 220 million people provides strong internal demand, allowing manufacturers to achieve scale while reducing dependency on imports. Additionally, rising urbanization and expanding middle-class consumption have fueled growth in processed foods, household appliances, and construction materials, highlighting the strategic importance of light manufacturing for domestic economic resilience.

Government policies and investment incentives have been pivotal in attracting capital to Nigeria’s light manufacturing industry. Initiatives such as the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the Anchor Borrowers Program provide credit access, subsidies, and technical support to manufacturers, particularly in agro-processing and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Industrial parks and free trade zones in Lagos, Ogun, and Kano have improved infrastructure, logistics, and access to electricity, enabling local producers to scale operations and meet international quality standards. Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into Nigeria’s manufacturing sector reached over $1.2 billion in 2023, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s industrial policies and its capacity to support modernized light manufacturing.

Agro-processing, in particular, has driven significant export growth and import substitution. Nigeria processes cassava, cocoa, and palm oil into packaged goods for both domestic and international markets, reducing food import reliance while generating foreign exchange. Local manufacturers have increasingly adopted technology, including mechanized processing, cold chain logistics, and digital inventory tracking, to improve efficiency and product quality. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that value-added in agro-processing has grown at an annual rate of 7–9% over the past five years. As global brands and regional markets continue to demand higher-quality manufactured goods, Nigeria’s strategic combination of policy support, technological adoption, and domestic market scale positions it as a key light manufacturing hub in Africa.

Morocco

Morocco has rapidly emerged as Africa’s largest automotive producer, transforming itself into a key global manufacturing hub over the past two decades. With 700,000 vehicles exported annually, Morocco now surpasses traditional exporters such as China and Japan in supplying the European market, highlighting the country’s strategic positioning and competitive manufacturing capabilities. This sector alone contributes approximately 22% to the nation’s GDP and generates over $14 billion in exports, underscoring its economic significance. Major manufacturers, including Renault, Stellantis, and Toyota, have established large-scale assembly plants in industrial clusters such as Tangier, Casablanca, and Kenitra, enabling Morocco to become a regional center for automotive innovation, logistics, and supply chain integration.

Government incentives and infrastructure development have been central to Morocco’s industrial success. The Moroccan Investment Development Agency (AMDI) and Free Trade Zones offer tax breaks, streamlined customs procedures, and support for technology adoption, creating a favorable environment for foreign direct investment. In addition, Morocco has invested over $10 billion in industrial ports, logistics corridors, and renewable energy integration to reduce production costs and improve sustainability. The country’s workforce, trained through specialized automotive and technical schools, ensures a steady supply of skilled labor, meeting international quality and efficiency standards. This combination of policy support, infrastructure, and talent development has allowed Morocco not only to attract global automakers but also to integrate domestic suppliers into international value chains.

Beyond automotive production, Morocco is expanding into other light manufacturing sectors such as aerospace components, electronics, and textiles, leveraging its industrial parks and Free Zones to diversify exports. The country’s export-oriented strategy, coupled with preferential trade agreements with the European Union, the United States, and African nations under the AfCFTA, provides manufacturers with unparalleled market access. Furthermore, data from the Moroccan Automotive Association shows that vehicle production and exports have grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8–10% over the past five years, demonstrating sustained sectoral momentum. Morocco’s model illustrates how strategic investment, infrastructure development, and policy incentives can rapidly elevate a country into a leading manufacturing hub in Africa.

South Africa

South Africa remains the continent’s preeminent hub for light manufacturing, driven by a combination of well-established industrial infrastructure, skilled labor, and government support. The country’s automotive sector alone contributes over $15 billion annually to exports, accounting for approximately 6% of GDP, with global automakers such as BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz maintaining large-scale assembly plants in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. Beyond vehicles, South Africa’s electronics and textile industries are steadily modernizing, with factories integrating advanced production lines and automation to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and meet international quality standards. This diversified industrial base positions the country to both meet domestic demand and serve as a gateway for exports to African and European markets.

The South African government has actively incentivized innovation and investment in light manufacturing, particularly through the recently announced $54 million electric vehicle (EV) production stimulus. This initiative is designed to attract major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and foster domestic EV supply chains, including battery production, electronics integration, and assembly. By promoting local content requirements and offering tax rebates, the program not only reduces the import burden but also creates high-value jobs, with estimates suggesting the potential for 10,000 new positions over the next five years in automotive and ancillary sectors. These measures align with broader industrial policy objectives, such as the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP), which emphasizes technology adoption, skills development, and export-oriented growth in light manufacturing.

Data-driven manufacturing practices and adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies are increasingly shaping South Africa’s competitive advantage. Advanced robotics, IoT-enabled production monitoring, and real-time analytics are being applied in automotive and electronics assembly lines to optimize throughput, reduce defects, and improve predictive maintenance. The textile sector has similarly benefited from automation in cutting, sewing, and quality control, allowing South African manufacturers to compete against lower-cost Asian producers. Moreover, leveraging trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) enhances access to regional markets, giving South African light manufacturers a strategic advantage. Collectively, these factors ensure that the country remains a magnet for investment while reinforcing its role as a continental leader in light manufacturing.