Annual consumer inflation jumped to 5,0% in June 2026 from 4,5% in May 2026. This is the highest inflation print since June 2024 when the rate was 5,1%. Prices rose by 0,7% on average between May and June, the same increase recorded between April and May. Fuel price pressures remain Transport was the largest contributor to both the   read more »

The South African economy is predominantly service-oriented. The tertiary sector accounted for 70% of economic activity or value added in 2024, far larger than the secondary (20%) and primary (10%) sectors combined.1 Within the tertiary sector, the finance, real estate & business services industry was responsible for 23% of value added, making it the largest   read more »

The construction industry in South Africa has faced numerous challenges over the years. Some of the key contributing factors, according to Infrastructure South Africa,1 were slow economic growth, low investment, loadshedding, labour shortages, the COVID-19 pandemic and criminal activity. According to gross domestic product (GDP) estimates, construction’s contribution to national economic activity peaked at 4,2%   read more »

Consumer inflation jumped to 4,5% in May from 4,0% in April. This is the highest rate since July 2024, when it was 4,6%. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,7% in May. The inflation surge was largely driven by increases in fuel prices. The fuel index recorded a second large monthly increase,   read more »

The South African economy maintained its positive momentum in the first quarter of 2026 (January–March). Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0,5%,1 marking a sixth consecutive quarter of growth. Finance, agriculture, trade and transport did the heavy lifting on the production (supply) side of the economy. The expenditure (demand) side was supported by a   read more »

Stats SA published 25 statistical releases in May, with many providing a preliminary snapshot of economic performance in the first quarter (January–March). Business indicators largely upbeat The first quarter of 2026 was mainly positive, with stronger results from mining; wholesale trade sales; motor trade sales; tourist accommodation; restaurants, catering & fast-food; and rail & road   read more »

Earlier in the month, Stats SA reported the notable impact of higher fuel prices on consumer inflation.1 Producers were not spared either, according to data released this week. Manufacturers are also feeling the heat Fuel price increases also affected prices at the factory gate, as measured by the headline producer price index (PPI). The annual   read more »

Consumer inflation jumped to 4,0% in April from 3,1% in March, driven mainly by sharp fuel price increases. This is the highest inflation print since August 2024, when the headline rate was 4,4%. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 1,1% in April. Fuel prices bite hard Consumers were dealt a painful fuel   read more »

Several energy sources drive our economy. A recent report on the electricity, gas & water supply industry provides insight into the structure of electricity supply and use.   Where does our electricity come from? Coal continues to be the primary source of fuel, driving 83% of local electricity generation in 2024 (see Figure 1 below). South   read more »

Stats SA’s publication schedule was quieter in April, with 20 statistical releases published in the month. The latest economic figures cover the month of February. On the upside Most indicators were positive year-on-year. Mining; construction (buildings completed as reported by large municipalities); retail trade sales; motor trade sales; tourist accommodation; restaurants, catering & fast-food; and   read more »