Hyundai Motor Group recently hosted a conference at its headquarters in Seoul, bringing together global researchers to discuss key issues surrounding Africa's industrial structure. The event aimed to share research findings on the continent's industrial landscape, which has been dubbed the 'last frontier market' due to its vast growth potential and abundant critical minerals.
The theme of the conference was 'The Global Competitiveness and Business Growth Potential of the African Mobility Industry,' focusing on key issues such as energy transition and green hydrogen, critical minerals and infrastructure development, global supply chain reorganization, and African business models. Attendees examined the growth potential and challenges of the African economy through various presentations and discussions.
Prominent attendees included CSST co-directors Professor Ha-Joon Chang and Professor Antonio Andreoni, representatives from SOAS, the University of Manchester, Seoul National University, and Yonsei University, as well as officials from the South African government and public institutions. Representing Hyundai Motor Group were Sung Kim, President and Head of Strategy and Planning Division; Yongseok Shin, Head of HMG Business Intelligence Institute; and Dongwook Kim, Executive Vice President of the Strategic Policy Division.
The partnership between Hyundai Motor Group and SOAS is part of the company's strategy to explore new business opportunities in various sectors, such as mobility, energy, resources, and construction. The support provided by the Group will aid research into core elements of Africa's sustainable growth, including supply chains, renewable energy, mineral resources, and infrastructure development.
SOAS is one of the 17 constituent colleges of the University of London, specializing in the study of Asia and Africa. Established in 2024 within SOAS under the leadership of world-renowned scholar Professor Ha-Joon Chang, CSST researches long-term industrial policies and practical strategies for sustainable growth in Africa.
The establishment of CSST was supported by Hyundai Motor Group, which aims to gain a fundamental understanding of the African market. This partnership will enable the company to better identify areas for growth and expansion in various sectors.
The conference highlighted the importance of industrial policy and development finance in driving Africa's economic growth. Attendees discussed the need for targeted policies to support sustainable development and address the challenges facing the continent's industrial sector.
The event marked an important step forward in Hyundai Motor Group's efforts to explore new business opportunities in Africa. The partnership with SOAS and CSST will provide valuable insights into the African market, enabling the company to make informed decisions about future investments and expansions.
The partnership with SOAS and CSST will help Hyundai better understand Africa's industrial landscape and identify areas for growth.
