Debt can quickly become a curse if businesses take on more than they can handle. The most recent financial data from Stats SA covers debt in the formal business sector, highlighting industries that might be more at risk, with a particular focus on small enterprises. Businesses borrowed less in 2024 Total debt (i.e. liabilities) in   read more »

South Africa is home to more than 3 million immigrants, accounting for 5,1% of the country’s population, according to the latest Migration Statistics Report based on the 2022/23 Income and Expenditure Survey. Most of these immigrants—63,6%—hail from countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The data also reveals a distinct demographic trend: most immigrants   read more »

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 »

Welcome to the February issue of Mbalo Brief, our first issue for 2026. February is widely recognised as the month of love, but it is also a time to celebrate something equally powerful, our languages. On 17 November 1999, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared 21 February as International Mother Language   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 »

Media Adversory 12 February 2026 Statistics South Africa to release the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), Quarter 4 of 2025 Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) will release the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) results for the fourth quarter of 2025 at a media briefing in Tshwane on Tuesday, 17 February 2026. The Labour Force Survey   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 »

A healthy agricultural industry is vital to economic development, employment and food security. Horticultural crops account for the largest share of income from sales of goods in South African commercial agriculture, followed by field crops, animals and animal products. Explore the products that drive the agricultural industry in this edition of Stats Biz Download Stats   read more »

Stats SA kick-started the year with 20 statistical releases, with fresh economic data for November 2025. Indicators that were positive year-on-year in November 2025 include construction (buildings completed as reported by large municipalities); retail trade; tourist accommodation; restaurants, catering & fast-food; and rail transport (freight and passenger). Mining, manufacturing, electricity generation, wholesale trade, motor trade and   read more »