The petroleum industry powers the nation's transport; empowers its people, and partners the state in its goals of social and economic upliftment. Petroleum products fuel factories and domestic needs. By-products of liquid fuels also create wealth in many areas, ranging from manufacturing to agriculture, and from cosmetics to food. The petroleum industry is vital to South Africa's economic growth.

The South African Petroleum Industry Association (Sapia) takes pleasure in presenting the Association's seventh report, covering the year 2003.

The dramatic developments taking place in the industry currently are noted in this Report, as are the changes expected in the next few years.

Sapia seeks to promote understanding of the industry's contribution to economic and social progress and also acts as a voice for systematic and stable transition of the national industry in an era of transformation.

Sapia was formed to further matters of common interest amongst competing petroleum companies and to promote within the industry:

• Good ethics and high industrial standards.
• Good governance.
• Good communication.

For the latest information and regular media releases on Sapia activities we refer you to our website at: http://www.sapia.co.za

SAPIA’S CORE BELIEFS

Sapia supports:

• A liberalised market, reached by an orderly, fair and inclusive process and accepts that member companies have a role to play in the empowerment of Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs).
• The upliftment of rural areas.
• The sustainable development of South Africa.
• Co-operation with Government in achieving national economic objectives.
• An economic climate that fosters competitive efficiency.
• Continuation of world-class standards in the South African petroleum industry.

The King Protea (Protea cynaroides) at dusk in the grassy Fynbos of Featherstone Kloof,
near Grahamstown, where a Sapia member’s conservation team is carrying out work.