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The article evaluates stakeholders’ perceptions of the functionality and sustainability of selected industrial development zones (IDZs) in South Africa, including the COEGA IDZ, the country’s largest, and the East London IDZ, the country’s most productive. The study followed a qualitative research design with structured interviews with IDZ stakeholders in the Eastern and Western Cape. The findings lean towards relatively positive perceptions but highlighted the need for more government support to ensure sustainable economic contributions. Challenges such as limited electricity supply (load shedding), lack of public service delivery, and inadequate government management must be addressed for the sustainability of existing IDZs and the establishment of new ones. The study also raises concerns about IDZs’ links to local businesses and their ability to meet local community needs through employment opportunities. The findings provide valuable insights into IDZs in a developing country, serving as a basis to enhance industrialisation in Africa through the efficient management of such zones.