In the 21^st Century there has been a marked turnaround in the economic performance of the Eastern Cape Province. In 2000 and 2001, the Eastern Cape was the fastest growing province in South Africa with a real GDP-R growth rate of 6.2% and 5.3% respectively, compared to the country’s GDP growth of 3.5% and 2.8%.  In 2003, the provincial economy’s estimated value was R88 billion, making up 8.1% of South Africa’s GDP. 

Situated equidistant from South Africa’s three largest cities, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, the Province allows for ease of transport via modern networks of air, roads and railways. This is one of the positive attributes of investing in the Eastern Cape. Two harbours – including a deep-water port – and three airports further assist in importing and exporting of goods.

The DEDEA has invested in strategically growing and developing the structural constraints of the Province.  Along with this, they have further prioritised: