UASA Media Release: 10 March 2026
Image Source: StatsSA.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
Despite recent economic challenges and growth falling short of expectations, UASA welcomes the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth reported by StatsSA for 2025.
The fourth quarter of 2025 recorded 0.4% growth, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of economic growth. The growth helped push annual GDP up by 1.1% in 2025, the highest annual growth rate since 2022, when GDP increased by 2.1%.
However, growth fell short of the Reserve Bank’s prediction of 1.3% and the National Treasury’s forecast of 1.4%.
Despite overall reported growth, the sector-by-sector picture is disappointing, with half of the 10 sectors shrinking in the fourth quarter compared to the third. This is concerning, as it is the foundation we are building on for the first quarter of 2026, and it could pose challenges to the expected economic progression in 2026.
Financial services, trade, agriculture, government, and personal services were the main contributors to growth. Utilities, construction, manufacturing, and transport recorded the weakest performance.
Despite ongoing challenges, UASA is pleased that agriculture was the leading sector in 2025, growing by more than 17% compared to 2024.
Although economic growth did not meet expectations, the steady progress suggests potential for tangible improvements over time.
In his recent budget speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana projected a 1.6% growth rate for 2026. Based on current results, we remain hopeful that this target is achievable. UASA hopes the economy will continue to grow sustainably, enabling South Africans to experience the meaningful progress the country needs.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.