Representation. Practical employer support. A stronger voice for South African business.
SAEFA represents employers across South Africa's metal and engineering industries — from smaller businesses to large multinational organisations.
Different businesses. Different needs.
One stronger employer voice.
We work at national, industry and individual company level — representing employer interests, supporting businesses through complex workplace and industry challenges, and giving our members access to practical expertise when they need it.
Because some of the biggest decisions affecting your business don’t happen inside your business.
SAEFA makes sure employers have a voice where those decisions are being made — and support where it matters most.
What We Offer
More than Membership.
INDUSTRY REPRESENTATION
A voice in the conversations and structures that affect your industry.
EMPLOYER SUPPORT
A voice in the conversations and structures that affect your industry.
SPECIALIST EXPERTISE
A voice in the conversations and structures that affect your industry.
SKILL-SHARE
Relevant conversations, insight and practical learning for members.
MEMBER RESOURCES
Industry information, resources, templates and useful guidance in one place.
INDUSTRY CONNECTION
Be part of a broader community of employers across South Africa’s metal and engineering industries.
Whether you employ 20 people, 200 or 2,000, you shouldn’t have to navigate the industry alone.
Connected to your industry.
Focused on your business.
What our members say
“We have been long-standing members of SAEFA, having supported the split from SEIFSA due to unfavourable labour agreements. SAEFA’s commitment to enter into agreements that are favourable to both employers and the industry at large has been one of the key reasons we chose to remain with them”.
Our company specialises in producing castings in various grades of Grey Cast Iron...
“The most significant benefits of being a member include having representation at the MEIBC during wage negotiations, receiving expert advice on industrial relations, and staying updated on industry trends and developments”.
Our company specialises in the manufacture and supply of both standard and specialised...
“One of the most significant benefits of SAEFA membership is their proactive communication, providing answers to industry questions even before they arise. During challenging times, such as an acquisition, SAEFA’s support and advice were invaluable in ensuring fair and transparent labour migration”.
J van Gaalen & Son (Pty) Ltd, a specialist in general engineering and...
“SAEFA has played a crucial role in engaging and training us on legislation and industry-related changes, which has been invaluable during challenging times”.
West Rand Engineering Works (Pty) Ltd partnered with SAEFA to align with their...
“Being a member of SAEFA has positively impacted our company, particularly during restructuring after lockdown. Networking with other members has helped us form valuable connections and partnerships, advancing our company further”.
As a leading manufacturer and distributor of fasteners, commonly known as nuts and...
“Our longstanding membership with SAEFA spans through different management eras, underscoring our trust in their steadfast values and ethical practices. SAEFA isn’t just about addressing employer concerns; they champion the future of manufacturing”.
As operators of a machine shop specialising in CNC production machining, Robb &...
“The most significant benefit of being a member of SAEFA is the immediate access to experts for any HR or IR issues or advice. SAEFA has empowered employers by providing a strong voice during industry wage negotiations”.
At W Fearnehough T/A Zanogen Machine Knives, we manufacture, supply, re-grind, and sharpen...
“Being a member has positively impacted our company by keeping us up to date with all labour legislation and ensuring that all conflict resolution cases are well-represented”.
Joining SAEFA has greatly benefited Copper Tubing Africa (Pty) Ltd, our company specialises...
“One of the most significant benefits of being a SAEFA member is their comprehensive support regarding labour relations. From short-time applications to retrenchments, they offer invaluable assistance and guidance. Gordon Angus and the team are always ready to listen and advise”.
At MSP Mine Support Products (Pty) Ltd, we specialise in manufacturing steel...
“We decided to join SAEFA, aligning with their grounded and realistic approach to collective bargaining that balances the needs of the industry, employers, and labour”.
As a company with over 35 years of experience in providing anti-corrosion protection...
Latest from SAEFA
16 September Webinar: Implementing Short Time, Lay-Offs and Retrenchments
Trading conditions in metal and engineering are pushing more employers towards short-time, lay-offs and retrenchment. All three carry strict substantive and procedural requirements under the Labour Relations Act. Skip a step, consult too late, or select on the wrong criteria, and you end up defending the dismissal at the CCMA...
SAEFA Skill-Share 19 | Two Elections. One Business Landscape
Thank you to everyone who joined us for yesterday’s August SAEFA Skill-Share session, featuring guest speaker Ofentse Davhie from the Centre for Risk Analysis (CRA). Ofentse explored how the upcoming U.S. midterm elections and South Africa’s local elections could influence the political and economic environment, and what these developments could mean...
What Does R59.50 Really Buy Your Business?
Why the Smallest Investment Can Deliver the Greatest Return Every business owner understands the importance of investing wisely. Whether it's new equipment, staff development, or improving operational efficiency, every investment should contribute to the long-term success of the business. Yet every day we make small purchasing decisions without giving them much thought....
SAEFA Guide to CCMA/MEIBC Rules and Processes Webinar – 15 July 2026
Are you confident that you understand the rules and procedures of the CCMA and the MEIBC? Avoid costly procedural mistakes by joining our practical 2-hour webinar, designed to give employers, managers and HR practitioners a clear understanding of how disputes are managed from referral through to finalisation. Understanding CCMA and MEIBC Rules...
Invitation to Participate in the Quarterly South African Manufacturing Survey
SAEFA has been requested to share the following invitation on behalf of the Centre for African Industrialisation (CAI) and the Toyota Wessels Institute for Manufacturing Studies (TWIMS). The Centre for African Industrialisation is launching a Quarterly SA Manufacturing Survey and invites manufacturers to participate. The survey aims to monitor the health and...
Advisory Note to SAEFA Members Regarding 30 June 2026 Protest Action
Please find attached an advisory note regarding the planned protest action on 30 June 2026 and its potential implications for employers. Members are encouraged to review the note and consider any appropriate operational and workplace arrangements. Advisory Note to SAEFA Members Regarding 30 June 2026 Protest Action
Wage Increases 1 July 2026 – Plastic Industry
Member companies falling within the scope of the MEIBC Plastic Chamber are regulated by the Plastic Industry Settlement Agreement. Employers operating within this scope are legally required to implement the prescribed wages and conditions of employment applicable to scheduled employees. The annual wage increases effective 1 July 2026 are contained in...
CONTINUATION OF LEVY PAYMENTS TO THE ADMINISTRATION, DISPUTE, PENSION AND PROVIDENT FUND AGREEMENTSAT CURRENT RATES
The Registration and Administration Expenses, Dispute Resolution, Pension and Provident Fund Collective Agreements were gazetted on 18 May 2026. This follows an application to the Department of Employment and Labour in terms of the Labour Relations Act seeking the extension of these four agreements for a further twelve (12) month period....
ADMINISTRATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION LEVIES – SUSPENSION OF DEDUCTIONS
Members are advised that the MEIBC Registration and Administration Expenses Collective Agreement and the Dispute Resolution Collective Agreement both lapsed on 17 April 2026. Please find the attached notice. Members are requested to review the contents and take note of the immediate requirement to suspend related levy deductions until further notice. SAEFA...
Urgent: ITAC Safeguard Investigation on Corrosion-Resistant Steel Imports – Member Participation
SAEFA has been alerted to Government Notice 3804 of 2026, issued by the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC), concerning a safeguard investigation into the increased imports of certain corrosion-resistant steel products. ITAC has scheduled a public interest hearing on 19 March 2026 (virtual), where interested parties may present submissions regarding the...
National Minimum Wage Increase to R30,23 per Hour from 1 March 2026
The Department of Employment and Labour has announced an increase to South Africa’s National Minimum Wage (NMW), which will take effect on 1 March 2026. In terms of the National Minimum Wage Act, 2018, and as published in Government Gazette No. 54075 (attached) on 3 February 2026, the national minimum...
Effective Workplace Discipline Workshop 11 February 2026
Avoid costly mistakes when disciplining employees. Many employers still lose CCMA and bargaining council cases due to avoidable errors in workplace discipline — often despite having valid reasons to act. To help employers get it right the first time, SAEFA, in association with Gordon Angus & Associates, invites you to attend a...
Introducing SAEFA’s New Chairperson The Leadership Vision of Mr Randir Singh
The Leadership Vision of Mr Randir Singh SAEFA proudly introduces Mr Randir Singh as the new Chairperson, an industry leader whose career, values, and vision reflect a deepcommitment to ethical leadership and sustainable sector growth. His appointment comes at a time when employers across SouthAfrica are navigating both complex challenges and...
How to pay employees for Heritage Day
Please see below information dealing with payment for employees in respect of Heritage Day, 24 September 2025 How to pay employees for Heritage Day 2025
How to pay employees for Women’s Day 2025
Please see note attached for information on how to pay employees in respect of Women’s Day this Saturday. How to pay employees for Women's Day 2025
No-Cost Onsite Financial Wellness Support for Your Employees
We’re pleased to share a valuable opportunity for SAEFA member companies to support the financial wellbeing of their employees—at no cost to the company. As a follow-up to our recent financial wellness webinar with Masthead, they have offered to conduct onsite financial wellness workshops and one-on-one consultations with employees directly at...
Signed Settlement Agreement// Plastic Industry Main Collective Agreement 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2028
Please see below for your information. Settlement Agr_Plastic Industry_Main Collective Agr
Increase in MIBFA Pension & Provident Fund Contribution Rates
Please note that, effective 1 July 2025, the employer contribution rate to both the Pension and Provident Funds will increase from 8.10% to 8.30%. The employee contribution rate will remain unchanged at 7.5%. This adjustment is made in accordance with the Funds Surplus Apportionment arrangements. Please find attached an information note outlining...
MEIBC Industry Circular 2025 – 3 – Notice in Respect of RACEA and the DRA
See below relating to the Council Levies payable in terms of the Registration and Administration Expenses Collective Agreement (RAECA) and Dispute Resolution Agreement (DRA): Industry Circular No 2025 - 3 - Publication of a Section 32A Notice in Respect Raeca and the DRA
How to Pay Employees for Worker’s Day 2025
Please see below guidance on how to pay employees for Worker’s Day, 1 May 2025. How to pay employees for Worker's Day 2025
Update on Payment of the Admin and Dispute Levies
Please see below an explanatory circular regarding the renewal and extension of the Admin and Dispute Resolution Levies. The Admin Levy and the Dispute Resolution Levy will continue to be collected as per the renewed agreements, with effect from 17 April 2025. The levy amounts for both agreements remain unchanged and are...
Equity Evolution 2025: Navigating the Overhauled Employment Equity Regulations and Sectoral Targets
Following consultation meetings between the Department of Employment and Labour stakeholders in the Manufacturing Sector in mid-February 2025, SAEFA objected to the introduction of Sectoral Targets on multiple grounds. Unfortunately, the DEL has ignored these objections and published the Sectoral Targets without amendment. They have also completely overhauled the EE...
The Infinitum Newsletter – April 2025 Edition
As April unfolds, we're thrilled to unveil exciting updates and events in our latest newsletter. From groundbreaking innovations to upcoming community gatherings, there's much to look forward to. Download here THE INFINITUM NEWSLETTER APRIL 2025
Are you experiencing problems with the MERSETA?
RE: DELAYS IN THE PAYMENTS OF GRANTS BY THE MERSETA It has come to our attention that some of our members may be experiencing delays or frustrations with the payment of grants by the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (MERSETA). As your representative body, SAEFA is...
Important Update on Levy Agreements
Expiration of Registration, Administration and Expenses Collective Agreement (RAECA) and Dispute Resolution Agreement (DRA): Important Update on Levy Agreements The current Registration, Administration and Expenses Collective Agreement (RAECA) and the Dispute Resolution Agreement (DRA), which obligate employees and employers to pay the Admin Levy and Dispute Resolution Levy respectively, are set...
Increase in the BCEA Earnings Threshold
As per the recent government gazette notice (No. 52232, dated 7 March 2025 - attached), the Minister of Employment and Labour has determined a new BCEA Earnings Threshold. Effective from 1 April 2025, the threshold has been set at R261,748.45 per annum. Key points to note: Applicability: This threshold applies to all...
Update on Recent Developments Concerning the Metal and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council (MEIBC) and the extension of the Main Agreement
Please see below an important update on recent developments on the MEIBC and the extension of the Main Agreement and other collective agreements. Update on Recent Developments Concerning the Metal and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council (MEIBC) and the extension of the Main Agreement Annexure A - Registrar's Response
CDE Report on South Africa’s Budget Crisis: Realistic Solutions and Growth Strategy
Please see attached a report from the Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE), South Africa's Budget Crisis: Realistic Solutions and Growth Strategy. The report analyses South Africa's unsustainable fiscal policies, stemming from excessive spending and growing debt. It argues that the government must address a significant budget deficit without resorting to...
National Minimum Wage Increase
The Minister of Employment and Labour has gazetted a new National Minimum Wage (NMW), effective 1 March 2025. The NMW will increase to R28.79 per ordinary hour worked. Below please find an explanatory circular on the increase of the NMW as well as commentary. Increase in NMW March 2025 Comment on...
How to Use AI to Prepare for Disciplinary Enquiries Webinar – 6 March 2025
We are excited to introduce a brand new, cutting edge webinar, How to Use AI to Prepare for Disciplinary Enquiries, where we'll unlock the power of artificial intelligence to transform your preparation process. In today's fast-paced business environment, being well-prepared for disciplinary matters is crucial, and AI technology offers a game-changing...
Effective Implementation of the EEA – 12 February 2025
The Employment Equity Amendment Act, effective from 1 January 2025, has ushered in a new era of workplace transformation. This isn't just another regulatory change — it's a fundamental reimagining of how we approach diversity, inclusion, and equality in our organisations. The Department of Employment and Labour isn't just sitting back. ...
Shrey Ramkolowan Appointed as SAEFA Chairperson, Ushering in a New Chapter for the Metals and Engineering Sector
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Shrey Ramkolowan as its new Chairperson. An accomplished professional with extensive experience in industrial relations, HR strategy, and organisational development, she brings a dynamic perspective to SAEFA’s mission of supporting the metals and engineering industry. Shrey steps into this leadership role with a...
SAEFA Executive Committee for 2024/2025
Announcement of SAEFA Committee 2024/2025 It is my pleasure to announce the 2024/25 Committee which was elected at the South African Engineers’ and Founders’ Association Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday 17 October 2024. Chairperson: Shrey Ramkolowan Efficient Engineering (Pty) Ltd Vice Chairperson: Danie van Schoor High Duty Castings (Pty) ltd Executive Committee:...
Employment Equity Amendment Act
The Minister of Employment and Labour has proclaimed that the Employment Equity Amendment Act will be effective from 1 January 2025. Whilst the amendments are potentially far-reaching, the most significant development is that company’s of less than 50 employees will, from 1 January 2025, no longer be defined as Designated...
The Infinitum Newsletter – November 2024 Edition
As the year winds down, November offers us the perfect moment to reflect on how far we’ve come—and to gear up for a strong finish. Download here INFINITUM NEWSLETTER-NOV 2024
Understanding the Two Pot System
A complimentary webinar for SAEFA members will be held on 26 September at 14:00
Socio-economic protest action 7 October 2024
COSATU has called for a national day of protest on 7 October 2024 across all provinces against joblessness, income inequality and poverty. Cosatu says this will be in the form of marches and pickets in all major cities and towns. Please find attached below a brief advising members on how to deal...
Effective Implementation of the Employment Equity Act – 17 July 2024
With the imminent implementation of the Employment Equity Amendment Act, a more aggressive approach to transformation is on the horizon, emphasizing enforcement measures and the introduction of sectoral targets. It is crucial for employers to understand these changes to ensure compliance and avoid potential consequences. The most notable amendments to be...
Wage Increases 1 July 2024 – Plastic Industry
Employees employed by Plastic Manufacturers falling within the scope of registration of the MEIBC are regulated by the Plastic Industry Main Collective Agreement (PIMCA). All employers in the industry who fall within the scope of this collective agreement are accordingly legally obliged to implement the wages and conditions of employment...
Wage Increases – 1 July 2024
Please see below the latest information regarding the 1 July 2024 wage increases for scheduled employees. Wage-Increases-2024Download
Increase in MIBFA Pension & Provident Fund Contribution Rates
Please note that the employer contribution rates for the pension and provident funds will increase on 1 July 2024 by 0.2%, meaning that contributions from employers will increase to 8.10%, with the employee contribution remaining at 7.5%. This is in accordance with the Funds Surplus Apportionment arrangements. EIPF_MIPF firm circular...