The latest set of monthly economic data is mainly positive, with several indicators strengthening on a year-on-year basis in May. Consumer spending was stronger, with retail trade, motor trade, tourist accommodation and restaurants, catering & fast-food extending their gains. On the downside, wholesale trade, road freight transport and road passenger transport recorded a weaker month   read more »

Behind every statistic is a story — and South Africa’s population tells a powerful one. From shifting demographics to growing numbers, here are six revealing snapshots from the Mid-Year Population Estimates, 2025 (MYPE) report, that shows who we are right now. 1.South Africa’s Population Hits 63,1 Million in 2025 South Africa’s mid-year population is estimated   read more »

After holding steady at 2,8% in April and May, consumer inflation edged higher to 3,0% in June. The month-on-month change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,3%. Food inflation accelerates further The annual rate for food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB) reached a 15-month high of 5,1% in June. Meat – particularly beef – continues   read more »

Amanzimtoti Main Beach was reopened last week following the end of 2025’s sardine run.1 The annual mass migration of fish, which occurs between May and July, is a boon for local fishing communities along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. The sardine run highlights South Africa’s rich marine resources, which contribute to a vibrant fishing industry. A recent   read more »

The 2030 Agenda acknowledges that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, is the greatest global challenge and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. The first Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) aims to end poverty in all its forms and reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children   read more »

MEDIA STATEMENT Stats SA Engages Capitec on Labour Statistics and Informal Sector Dynamics  04 July 2025 For immediate release The Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, the Statistician-General, Mr Risenga Maluleke, and senior representatives from Stats SA and National Treasury met with Capitec Bank CEO Mr Gerrie Fourie and his management team on 3rd of July 2025   read more »

More consumer units are receiving basic services, but fewer are receiving these services for free. A 10-year review shows the coverage of free basic water falling from 38% in 2014 to 16% in 2023. The same held true for electricity, sewerage & sanitation and solid waste management. Explore municipal service delivery, as well as other   read more »

June was a busy month for Stats SA’s publication schedule, with 28 releases published in the month. Lacklustre economic growth in the first quarter June began with the release of the latest gross domestic product (GDP) estimates, for the first quarter (January–March) of 2025. GDP expanded by a muted 0,1%, with agriculture leading the increase.   read more »

The provision of free basic services to millions of households stems from the Free Basic Services (FBS) policy adopted in 2001. The policy outlined government’s intention to provide free services to the poorest (indigent) households. Over time, the FBS has expanded to include policies for free basic water, electricity, sewerage & sanitation and solid waste   read more »

MEDIA ADVISORY                                    30 June 2025 For Immediate Release Community Engagement Ahead of the Statistics South Africa Budget Vote On Wednesday, 2 July 2025, the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Ms Nonceba Mhlauli, will be joined by the Statistician-General of South Africa, Mr Risenga Maluleke, senior executives of Statistics South Africa, local councillors, and other community   read more »