UASA Media Release: 8 September 2026
Image Source: StatsSA.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA is deeply concerned by the continued economic challenges facing South Africa, particularly the setbacks experienced in key sectors such as manufacturing and mining.
These industries are critical drivers of economic growth, and their decline comes at a time when the economy remains under significant pressure.
According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted by 0.2% in the second quarter. This outcome was weaker than economists’ expectations of a 0.1% contraction and highlights the ongoing difficulties facing the South African economy.
Against the backdrop of persistently high unemployment, elevated inflation and a challenging cost-of-living environment, the latest GDP figures present a concerning reality for consumers, workers and businesses alike.
The contraction is particularly disappointing as it interrupts one of the country’s longest recent growth cycles, with six consecutive quarters of economic expansion having been recorded prior to the second-quarter decline.
Additional pressures, including rising fuel prices, inflation and high interest rates, have negatively affected consumer spending and economic activity. These factors have contributed to weaker performance in areas such as wholesale trade, food sales and fuel consumption, which are reflected in the latest GDP figures.
While the overall result is disappointing, it is encouraging that the majority of economic sectors remained resilient, with only three of the ten sectors recording negative growth during the quarter.
UASA calls on government, business leaders and policymakers to work together in implementing practical and sustainable economic interventions that can restore confidence, stimulate growth and create much-needed employment opportunities.
South Africa urgently needs a growing and resilient economy capable of supporting its citizens and addressing the country’s unemployment crisis. As the nation looks ahead to the final quarter of the year, job creation must remain a national priority, supported by policies that encourage investment, industrial growth and economic recovery.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.