Automotive aftermarket key to keeping South Africa moving

• The number of recorded qualified artisans fell from 15 936 to 11 646, a reduction of almost 27% since 2014.
• The number of apprentices in automotive aftermarket trades increased from 1 764 in 2014 to 4 254 by May 2026, a rise of more than 140%.
• The sector's resilience under pressure is threatened by a shortage of skilled artisans, which has consequences for repair times, costs, and the maintenance of the country's vehicle parc.