Government welcomes the latest economic figures released by Statistics South Africa, which indicate that the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.8% in the second quarter of 2025 (April–June), following a modest increase of 0.1% in the first quarter.
This growth reflects a broad-based recovery across key sectors of the economy. The manufacturing industry expanded by 1.8%, contributing 0.2 percentage points to overall GDP growth. Seven of the ten manufacturing divisions reported positive growth, with the largest contributions coming from petroleum, chemical products, and rubber and plastic products. The motor vehicles, parts and accessories, and other transport equipment divisions also supported growth.
The trade, catering, and accommodation sector showed strong performance, increasing by 1.7% and contributing 0.2 percentage points to GDP growth. This was driven by increased activity in retail trade, motor trade, accommodation, and food and beverages.
Amid challenging global economic conditions, these figures demonstrate the resilience of South Africa’s economy. Government views this as a positive sign of the impact of ongoing initiatives to stimulate growth, support local industries, and create jobs. Government remains committed to policies that foster inclusive and sustainable economic development for all South Africans.
Africa Fact: On Kongolese metallurgy of the Middle Ages, one modern scholar wrote that: “There is no doubting . . . the existence of an
expert metallurgical art in the ancient Kongo . . . The Bakongo were aware of the toxicity of lead vapours. They devised preventative and curative methods, both pharmacological (massive doses of pawpaw and palm oil) and mechanical (exerting of pressure to free the digestive tract), for combating lead poisoning.”
Crossfire or Cover-Up?
Silent
At the end of the school year and a mother asked his son if the exam questions were difficult. And he answers her saying “They weren’t bad at all,” it was the answers that gave me all the trouble.
Uncle Psycho
Fun South African Fact: Water is not all there is to drink in this thirsty country! South Africa’s Cape Winelands have around 560 wineries and 4 400 primary producers. Included in the Cape Winelands region is Route 62, considered the longest wine route in the world. That alone is good reason to visit South Africa if you haven’t yet been!