# South African Treasury Revises Conference Procurement

South Africa's National Treasury has issued a new procurement instruction permitting government entities to directly procure conference venues and related services from other state organs without competitive bidding. This policy shift aims to streamline procurement processes but has raised concerns among industry stakeholders about potential impacts on competition, transparency, and the private sector's economic role. Key industry associations such as the South African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) and FEDHASA are actively engaging with government to seek clarity on the instruction's application and advocate for maintaining fair competition to support jobs and investment.

- This instruction represents a significant change in procurement practice by allowing direct sourcing within government, potentially reducing opportunities for private sector suppliers in the conference and events market.
- Procurement professionals should evaluate how this policy affects sourcing strategies, contract planning, and compliance with transparency and accountability standards.
- Industry stakeholders may need to engage proactively with government to influence implementation details and ensure balanced procurement that supports economic growth.
- Organizations involved in government event services should assess risks and opportunities arising from this instruction and consider collaboration with state entities where appropriate.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Professional Services
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Treasury

### Key Quotes
> "While the intention may be to improve procurement efficiency, any move away from competitive processes must be carefully considered as transparency, accountability and public confidence are fundamental to economic growth and investment."
> — Gustav Pieterse, CEO, FEDHASA

> The association "recognises government27s responsibility to ensure prudent use of public funds and notes the governance measures built into the instruction."
> — Glenton de Kock, CEO, SAACI

### Sources
- [Treasury conference rule raises concerns | Travelnews](https://www.travelnews.co.za/article/treasury-conference-rule-raises-concerns) - travelnews.co.za