Agriculture, trade and finance kept the South African economy above water in the fourth quarter of 2024. The three industries contributed positively to the 0,6% rise in the gross domestic product (GDP). Agriculture was lifted by field crops and animal products, while trade expanded on the back of increased wholesale, motor and retail trade. Explore   read more »

The number of homeless persons in South Africa has increased significantly over the past few decades, reflecting the ongoing challenges the country faces, particularly in the areas of inequality and poverty. According to a new report, A Profile of Homeless Persons in South Africa, 2022 released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), in 1996, the   read more »

Food security in South Africa is more than just having food on store shelves — it’s about ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious, affordable meals. Yet, for millions, this remains out of reach. Even when food is available, many households struggle to afford it, and what is accessible often lacks the essential nutrients needed   read more »

Following a contraction of 0,1% in the third quarter of 2024, the South African gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 0,6% in the fourth quarter (October–December).1 Growth was led by agriculture, finance and trade on the supply (production) side of the economy. Household spending led growth on the demand (expenditure) side. Annually, the GDP grew   read more »

Economic data published this month provide preliminary insight into how the South African economy performed in the fourth quarter of 2024 and the calendar year Winners and losers The fourth quarter was generally downbeat across selected sectors, with only four keeping their heads above water. Wholesale trade, retail trade, motor trade and rail passenger transport   read more »

Retail trade sales surged in November, marking the most significant year-on-year jump for the month in seven years.1 The latest round of data, which concludes the results for the calendar year, provides an opportunity to re-examine2 November sales over time. November nipping at Santa’s heels One can think of Black Friday as a competitor to   read more »

27 February 2025 MEDIA ADVISORY                                                                      Statistics South Africa to release the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Q4 2024   Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) will release the results of the Gross domestic product (GDP) for the fourth quarter of 2024, at a media briefing on Tuesday, 4 March  2025 in Tshwane. The results will   read more »

South Africa’s youth, defined as individuals aged 15–34 years, form a crucial demographic and make up nearly one-third of the population. They represent a dynamic generation navigating a rapidly evolving society influenced by the labour market, poverty, crime and access to quality education. According to the 2024 Mid-year Population Estimates, approximately 21 million young people   read more »

Consumer inflation was 3,2% in January 2025, up slightly from 3,0% in December 2024. The January consumer price index (CPI) is the first to incorporate the changes to the CPI basket and weights announced last month.1 Food inflation slightly softer in January The CPI for food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB) increased by 2,3% in the 12 months to   read more »

Across South Africa, millions of grandparents are stepping in to raise their grandchildren. Whether due to economic hardship, parental struggles, or social shifts, more children are finding their strongest support system in their grandparents’ arms. According to the report Child Series Volume IV: Children Living with Grandparents in South Africa, 2023, approximately 6,7 million grandparents   read more »