Several tertiary education institutions are starting a new academic year this month. Stats SA provides the latest update on how higher education fees have shifted over time. Just over 10 years ago, students across the country launched widespread protests against rising tuition fees. This had an impact on the finances of higher education institutions, covered   read more »

While most learners in South Africa are able to access education, particularly at basic education level, a new report by Statistics South Africa highlights those who remain excluded from the education they aspire to, largely due to cost pressures. Despite education being a national priority, rising education-related expenses continue to place learning opportunities beyond the   read more »

Consumer price inflation dipped to 3,5% in January from 3,6% in December, returning to its November 2025 level. Stable food inflation and lower fuel prices contributed to the lower headline rate. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,2%, the same as December’s reading. Food inflation remained at 4,4% for a third consecutive   read more »

The braai brought many friends and family together this past December. South Africa’s favourite pastime is a staple of any holiday season, but it has become pricier over time. Exactly how much pricier comes down to a matter of taste. What makes a braai so wonderful is that it can take many different forms and   read more »

Consumer price inflation ticked higher in December to end the year at 3,6% from 3,5% in November. The change in the consumer price index (CPI) between November and December was 0,2%. The December print concludes the results for the calendar year. The average inflation rate for 2025 was 3,2%. This is the lowest rate in   read more »

Annual consumer price inflation eased to 3,5% in November from 3,6% in October. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was -0,1%. Annual inflation cooled in five of the 13 product categories, most notably transport; recreation, sport & culture; and information & communication. Four categories registered no change. Food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB),   read more »

Employment in SA’s formal non-agricultural sector edged up in the third quarter of 2025, according to the latest Quarterly Employment Statistics (QES) released by Statistics South Africa. The survey shows a gain of 29 000 jobs (0,3%), with employment rising from 10,52 million in June 2025 to 10,55 million in September 2025. However, year-on-year figures paint a different   read more »

Real gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 0,5% in the third quarter (July–September) of 2025.1 This follows a revised increase of 0,9% in the second quarter and marks the fourth consecutive rise in economic activity. Mining grows the most Nine of the ten industries on the production (supply) side of the economy were stronger in   read more »

Annual consumer inflation rose to 3,6% in October from 3,4% in September. This is the highest inflation print since September 2024 when the rate was 3,8%. The consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0,1% month-on-month in October 2025. The transport; recreation, sport & culture; and alcoholic beverages & tobacco categories recorded hotter annual rates. Inflation cooled for   read more »

Annual consumer inflation rose slightly to 3,4% in September from 3,3% in August. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,2%. Annual inflation accelerated across several product categories, most notably transport and restaurants & accommodation. In contrast, food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB); alcoholic beverages & tobacco; and furnishings, household equipment & routine   read more »