UASA Media Release: 20 January 2026
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
Statistics SA announced today that average inflation for 2025 was 3.2%, the lowest in 21 years. This is good news for consumers who have faced many economic challenges.
Consumer price inflation (CPI) rose to 3.6% from 3.5% in November. Core inflation also went up, from 3.2% in November to 3.3% in December.
Consumers are hopeful that inflation will stay manageable this year. However, with these numbers coming out just a week before the first interest rate decision of 2026, many people feel anxious.
Consumer prices rose by 0.2% between November and December, while average food price inflation remained unchanged from November. However, due to the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease crisis, red meat prices have risen sharply.
After fuel prices went up in December, fares for long-distance buses also rose sharply. This reflects the increase in travel during the festive season.
UASA is hopeful that inflation rates for 2026 will be marginal and economically decent for consumers and all South Africans. We also hope that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will be considerate when announcing the repo rate next week.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.