With a gross GDP of approximately R3.2trn ($390bn) as of year-end 2012, South Africa has the largest economy in Africa and the 28th largest globally. Industrial strife and policy uncertainty, however, have become key sources of investor concern of late. Recent years of slowing growth have failed to make much of a dent in structurally high unemployment and inequality, although a new government-...
South Africa Economy
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Chapter | Country Profile from The Report: South Africa 2013
Often referred to as the Rainbow Nation, South Africa has a heterogeneous population that reflects its rich and sometimes turbulent history. Recent times have seen the country score a number of high-profile successes, such as inclusion in the BRICS bloc, as a result of strong economic performance. South Africa benefits from strong ties with a number of major global powers, among which its single...
With a long-established track record as the continent’s largest financial platform and one of the world’s biggest mining producers, South Africa has significant economic clout in the region.
Economic update | South Africa: Battling unemployment
15 Apr 2013
The local economy is struggling to overcome twin hurdles – an inflated unemployment rate that siphons off state funding for social services and a lack of skilled workers to fill the many positions that are currently vacant.
Economic update | South Africa: Year in Review 2012
15 Jan 2013
The exacerbation of some of South Africa’s more intractable economic weaknesses – including contentious labour relations and tensions and uncertainty within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) – have combined to make 2012 a hugely challenging year for the continent’s largest economy.
South Africa’s economic performance is a mixed bag, depending on what sectors and what indicators are under scrutiny. The country, which accounts for roughly a quarter of Africa’s total GDP, has seen a rise in select industries, a drop in inflation, increased government spending and modest improvements in consumer sentiment, but is still grappling with labour unrest and underwhelming export demand.