| South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance deficit of R1.8 billion in May 2026. This deficit was attributable to exports of R178.8 billion and imports of R180.6 billion, inclusive of trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia (BELN). On a year-on-year basis, export flows for May 2026 (R178.8 billion) were 2.7% higher compared to R174.2 billion recorded in May 2025. Import flows were higher by 17.3%, having increased from R153.9 billion in May 2025 to R180.6 billion in the current period. Export flows decreased in May 2026, driven by gold, platinum group metals (PGMs), and motor vehicles (passengers). Import flows increased on the back of higher importation of crude oil, original equipment components, and passenger vehicles. Read More |
