Today’s GDP growth figures released by Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) for Q2:2025 tell us that real economic growth remains elusive as the economy has expanded by just 0.6% year-on-year.
Over the past three months, the economy has grown at just 0.8%. Numbers don’t bend to government spin. The data shows that South Africa’s economy is failing to deliver meaningful growth, job creation, or improved livelihoods under this Government of National Unity (GNU).
South Africans are reminded today that the economy is not an abstract “out there” concept. It shapes and determines every aspect of our society.
The economy is the price of bread and electricity, the ability to pay school fees, and the dignity of a payslip at the end of the month. Progress and prosperity are built on the strength of the economy. It is the engine that powers every other part of our lives.
It is worth noting that despite the cessation of loadshedding in the past year, the economy has grown at less than 0.6% over the past 12 months. The systemic and deeply entrenched barriers to growth extend far beyond energy shortages and power cuts.
Urgent and bold economic reform to shift the country from stagnation to growth is possible. Later this month we will unveil our Plan for Prosperity, which is a bold, practical and visionary path to achieve 5% economic growth and bring about value and prosperity to every South African.
It is a plan grounded in data, driven by evidence, and inspired by global best practice – from Asia to Africa, from the Americas to our own continent.
Each pillar addresses a specific bottleneck – from reducing business red tape and plugging infrastructure gaps, to empowering entrepreneurs, reforming labour, and investing in people. International experience shows that sustained 5% growth is achievable with the right mix of policies.
With political will and technical focus, South Africa can turn this blueprint into tangible progress, creating jobs, raising incomes, and finally delivering on the promise of prosperity for all.
If the President and his Cabinet are serious about inclusive economic growth and the creation of sustainable jobs, they must take our Plan for Prosperity seriously. We therefore formally call on the President to engage our Plan for Prosperity and incorporate its proposals into the GNU’s economic agenda.
South Africa cannot afford another lost quarter. The time for bold reform is now.
Media Enquiries: Roger Solomons – BOSA Spokesperson – 072 299 3551