After six consecutive quarters of growth, the South African economy stalled in the second quarter (April–June) of 2026, weakening by 0,2%.1 Mining, trade and manufacturing drove down economic activity on the production (supply) side of the economy, while a sharp rise in imports and subdued investment constrained growth on the expenditure (demand) side. Three industries   read more »

The headline inflation rate cooled for the first time in five months, declining to 4,3% in July from 5,0% in June. The monthly increase in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,2%, down from 0,7% in June. The slowdown can be attributed to three main factors: softer inflation for food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB); lower   read more »

As South Africa celebrates 30 years of constitutional democracy and census-taking, Census data provide a unique lens through which to assess the progress made by women, showcasing important gains in education, employment, and leadership between 1996 and 2022. Since 1996, South Africa has made significant strides in improving their lives and opportunities. Supported by the   read more »

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 »