New Car Sales Surge Despite Fuel Price Pain

South Africa’s economic activity surged in March, with the PayInc Economic Index hitting a record high of 104.7. But behind the strong first‑quarter momentum lies a growing storm. Independent Economist Elize Kruger breaks down the latest data

Africa’s trade ambitions are being held back by fragmented standards and weak traceability systems. GS1 South Africa CEO Zinhle Tyikwe unpacks why consumers should care about strengthening supply‑chain transparency across the continent.

Independent management consultant Stephan J. Lamprecht argues that South Africa’s real growth potential lies in targeted, sustained investment into SMMEs. We unpack the fragmented support ecosystem, the reforms needed to unlock scale, and how a coherent economic narrative can drive meaningful small-business growth.

Simon Blaire breaks down the latest PNet Job Market Trends Report, showing how AI skills have shifted from niche to mainstream across industries. We explore the rise of generative AI and the difference between AI development and AI application skills.

We explore how the Middle East conflict is driving up fertilizer, diesel, and freight costs across South Africa’s agricultural value chain. Nkhensani Mashimbyi from Absa AgriBusiness explains the risks for producers, the knock-on effects for food inflation, and where export opportunities—especially in citrus—remain strong.