Call to nationalise R150 billion private industry in South Africa

• The government has been called to nationalise South Africa's R150 billion private pharmaceutical industry to ensure the production of essential medicines is driven by social need.
• The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (Giwusa) made the call, citing concerns about job losses and the closure of manufacturing facilities in the sector, with over 2,500 direct jobs lost in the past 18 months.
• The union's call for nationalisation comes amid allegations of market dominance and excessive pricing by companies such as Adcock Ingram, which is currently facing a Competition Commission referral to the Competition Tribunal.