South Africa Business Sentiment Falls as US Tariffs Hit Exports

AFRICAN BUSINESS AND ECONOMYSeptember 2, 2025 at 12:12 PM UTC

TLDR

South African business sentiment declined in August as weaker demand and new US trade tariffs weighed on exports
Absa Group’s Purchasing Managers’ Index, compiled by the Bureau for Economic Research, dropped to 49.5 from 50.8 in July, slipping back into contractionary territory
President Donald Trump last month imposed a 30% tariff on selected South African exports, hitting the automotive and agricultural sectors hardest

South African business sentiment declined in August as weaker demand and new US trade tariffs weighed on exports.

Absa Group’s Purchasing Managers’ Index, compiled by the Bureau for Economic Research, dropped to 49.5 from 50.8 in July, slipping back into contractionary territory below the 50 mark. July’s reading had signaled growth for the first time in nine months.

A subindex tracking new sales orders fell sharply to 47.4 from 55.9, while business activity weakened to 45.8 from 47.1. Supplier deliveries also slowed, with the gauge dropping to 53 from 56.4. Respondents highlighted reduced demand, heightened competition from cheaper imports, and the knock-on effects of tariffs on clients.

President Donald Trump last month imposed a 30% tariff on selected South African exports, hitting the automotive and agricultural sectors hardest. The government has warned the measures could threaten about 30,000 jobs.

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Key Takeaways

South Africa’s PMI decline underscores the vulnerability of its export-driven industries to global trade policy shifts. The 30% US tariffs mark a significant blow for automotive and agricultural exporters, which are among the country’s biggest foreign-currency earners. The PMI drop also highlights weak domestic conditions, with subdued consumer demand adding to external pressures. Rising competition from cheaper imports further threatens local producers, raising concerns over profitability and employment. The government estimates 30,000 jobs could be at risk, while businesses face declining orders and margins. Policymakers may be forced to explore new trade partnerships or targeted relief to shield strategic industries. Unless exports recover or tariffs are rolled back, South Africa risks a prolonged period of weak manufacturing activity and further strain on an already sluggish economy.

South Africa

Economy

Business Sentiment

Absa Group

Bureau for Economic Research