Category: South Africa Government

South Africa’s growing export performance is helping to drive economic growth, support jobs and create new opportunities for producers, as government continues its efforts to build an economy that works for all South Africans.

New trade data released by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) shows that the country recorded a preliminary trade surplus of R15.2 billion in April 2026, while agricultural exports rose by 11% during the first quarter of the year, reflecting growing demand for South African products in international markets.

The positive export performance comes as government continues to implement measures aimed at expanding market access for local producers, strengthening key sectors of the economy and creating conditions for sustainable job creation.

This surplus was attributable to exports of R190.6 billion and imports of R175.4 billion, inclusive of trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia. 

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the 11% increase in agricultural exports during the first quarter of 2026. New data released by Agbiz showed agricultural exports reached US$3.7 billion in the first three months of the year compared with the same period in 2025.

According to the Minister, the growth was driven by exports of products including grapes, apples, pears, maize, wine, apricots, cherries, peaches, sugar, wool, fruit juices, nuts, avocados, pineapples, guavas, mangos and soya beans.

SARS said overall export growth in April was driven by higher exports of gold, platinum group metals (PGMs) and petroleum oils excluding crude. Export flows for April increased by 14.8% year-on-year, rising from R165.9 billion in April 2025 to R190.6 billion in April 2026.

The country’s year-to-date preliminary trade surplus reached R89.3 billion for the period from 1 January to 30 April 2026, more than double the R39.8 billion recorded during the same period last year.

Steenhuisen said the agricultural sector’s performance demonstrated the importance of expanding existing export markets and pursuing new opportunities for South African producers. 

He noted that continued export growth would depend on securing and protecting access to global markets.

The Minister highlighted recent market-access gains, including the conclusion of a Stone Fruit Protocol with China covering peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots and prunes, as well as the reopening of fresh apple exports to Thailand under strict phytosanitary conditions.

While export values remained strong, Steenhuisen cautioned that logistical inefficiencies continued to pose challenges for exporters. 

He pointed to operational delays and congestion at the Port of Cape Town during the peak table grape season, which resulted in cargo rerouting and financial losses for producers and exporters.

On a month-on-month basis, South Africa’s exports increased by R3.4 billion, or 1.8%, between March and April 2026. 

Imports rose by R18.5 billion, or 11.8%, driven by higher imports of petroleum oils excluding crude, electric generating sets and automatic data processing machines.

SARS also revised its March 2026 trade surplus figure downward. The preliminary surplus of R31.9 billion announced previously was reduced by R1.7 billion due to ongoing Vouchers of Correction (VOCs), resulting in a final surplus of R30.2 billion. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) has intensified its nationwide Operation Shanela crackdown on organised criminal networks involved in illicit trade, drug trafficking, illegal immigration and other serious and violent crimes.

These intelligence-led operations were conducted between 1 and 7 June across the country, resulting in the arrest of 17 587 suspects, including 2 549 wanted individuals linked to serious and violent crimes. 

During the same period, 2 399 illegal foreigners were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act, with the most arrests recorded in Gauteng (959), followed by 529 in KwaZulu-Natal.

Police have also conducted operations targeting transitional criminal networks involved in illicit trade, including significant seizures of illicit cigarettes across multiple provinces. 

• On 3 June 2026, police intercepted a suspicious truck and arrested a 35-year-old male suspect for possession of suspected illicit cigarettes worth R7.5 million on the N1 near Vaal Plaza in the Free State.
• On 5 June 2026, police seized illicit cigarettes worth R3 million and arrested two foreign nationals in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
• On 4 June 2026, police arrested a 49-year-old Zimbabwean national after intercepting a Nissan truck carrying illicit tobacco, worth R1.5 million, along the R518 road in Limpopo.
• In the Western Cape, police seized illegal liquor worth more than R9 million and arrested three Chinese nationals following a coordinated operation in Paarl on 4 June 2026. 
• In the fight against transnational drug syndicates, law enforcement agencies secured a major victory when they seized 90 kilograms of suspected cocaine, worth R36 million, at the Durban Harbour on 6 June 2026.

Other key arrests this week include 1 564 suspects arrested for assault GBH [grievous bodily harm]; 153 for murder; 157 for attempted murder; 135 for rape; 567 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; 196 for dealing in drugs; 3 115 for possession of drugs; 499 for illegal dealing in liquor and 26 for human trafficking.

Police also confiscated and recovered 127 unlicensed firearms of various calibres; 1 898 rounds of ammunition; contraband goods worth more than R21 million; various types of drugs, and 59 hijacked and stolen vehicles. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, confirmed the successful processing and repatriation of a group of 168 Mozambican nationals through the Lebombo Port of Entry.

The repatriation operation was facilitated by the Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique in South Africa, which transported the individuals from Mossel Bay to the Lebombo Port of Entry using three buses. 

The group arrived at the port at approximately 8:30 pm on Sunday, and the operation was concluded at midnight. 

A total of 168 Mozambican nationals and one South African citizen arrived at the port for processing.  

Of the Mozambican nationals processed, 141 individuals, comprising 97 males and 44 females, were undocumented and were accordingly deported in terms of the Immigration Act. 

A further eight Mozambican nationals had valid passports and were processed for lawful departure. The group also included 19 minors. 

In line with established child protection protocols, all minors underwent the necessary processes in collaboration with the Department of Social Development to ensure that their best interests were safeguarded throughout the repatriation process.

The South African citizen was refused departure after indicating an intention to accompany the group to visit family in the Republic of Mozambique without following the appropriate travel arrangements.

In support of the operation, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducted biometric fingerprint verification using mobile scanning devices to determine whether any of the repatriated individuals were linked to criminal activities or were wanted for outstanding offences in South Africa. 

The verification process confirmed that the only records identified were related to previous arrests for contraventions of immigration laws, specifically illegal presence within the Republic.

The Commissioner commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in facilitating the repatriation, including the Mozambican Embassy, SAPS, the Department of Social Development and BMA officials stationed at the Lebombo Port of Entry.

“The successful conclusion of this operation demonstrates the importance of coordinated action between neighbouring countries and government stakeholders in managing migration in a lawful, humane and orderly manner. 

“The BMA remains committed to ensuring that all movements across our ports of entry are processed in accordance with the law while upholding the dignity and rights of all persons involved,” Masiapato said.

The BMA continues to work closely with domestic and international partners to strengthen migration management, secure South Africa’s borders, and facilitate the legitimate movement of people and goods through the country’s ports of entry. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, will on Wednesday engage the Free State Provincial Executive Council on the coordination of government communication, nation branding, and community media support in the province.

The Deputy Minister will be accompanied by delegates from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and Brand South Africa (Brand SA).  

“The engagement forms part of government’s ongoing communication policy advocacy programme aimed at enhancing a coordinated and integrated government communication system across all spheres of government,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

The Free State engagement follows a similar session held in the North West Province in March this year. It is part of a nationwide rollout intended to strengthen communication planning, promote a cohesive national narrative, support community media and advance South Africa’s nation-branding objectives. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and the Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have welcomed Cabinet’s decision to approve the closure of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e-tolls – a move that will bring much-needed relief and ease the financial burden on road users.  

The approval for the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to shut down e-tolls includes the close-out of GFIP historical e-toll debt and the resolution of all outstanding litigation matters. 

“Government reiterates that the close-out of GFIP e-toll debt is intended to provide certainty, resolve historical debt matters and support a sustainable approach to the funding, maintenance and improvement of South Africa’s national road network,” the Department of Transport said. 

The Minister and Deputy Minister have described this decision as a long-awaited step towards closing the GFIP e-toll matter in an orderly and responsible manner.

Creecy and Hlengwa said the decision will bring much-needed relief and ease the financial burden on road users, who are currently hard-pressed by high fuel costs linked to ongoing geopolitical developments.

GFIP was implemented and operated by SANRAL in terms of the applicable tolling framework and approvals that were in place at the time. 

The e-toll system was introduced as a funding mechanism for the upgraded Gauteng freeway network.

The approval follows government’s decision to close the GFIP e-toll scheme and the subsequent withdrawal of the GFIP toll declarations, which took effect on 11 April 2024.

Cabinet’s approval confirms that the outstanding and unpaid historical GFIP e-toll debt owed by road users will be written off; SANRAL will not pursue any further collection of historical GFIP e-toll debt; and road users who lawfully paid e-tolls while the system was legally in force will not be refunded.

The no-refund position arises from the fact that the levies were lawful at the time they were paid, that is, before the toll declarations were withdrawn.

The write-off of outstanding debt gives effect to government’s decision to close the GFIP e-toll scheme and provide finality for road users, SANRAL and the fiscus.

“Government further emphasises that the user-pay principle remains an important part of South Africa’s road infrastructure funding framework where it is broadly accepted by road users through negotiation and agreement, appropriately structured, legally sound and supported by clear policy certainty,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

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In a move to grow the economy and support the creation of jobs for South Africans, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is supporting four South African companies in the forestry sector at the WoodEX for Africa and Deck and Flooring Expo, taking place from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

The exhibition provides an important platform for CMAS Trading and Projects, Seltech Cupboards, Roofbrands and Truss Master to showcase their products, explore new business opportunities and strengthen their presence in both local and international markets.

According to the department, the support forms part of its broader industrial policy objectives aimed at promoting industrialisation, strengthening local manufacturing, enhancing business competitiveness, encouraging value-added production, expanding market access for businesses, supporting Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), and creating sustainable jobs.

“Through participation in the exhibition, the dtic aims to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries, strengthen industry value chains, and increase commercial opportunities for local businesses,” the department said.

Recognised as a leading event for machinery, tools, forestry and timber supplies in southern Africa, WoodEX for Africa brings together trade and industry professionals, specialised dealers and businesses from across the sector.

The expo offers participants an opportunity to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations, establish valuable business connections and identify new commercial prospects within the timber trade.

The dtic said its support for the participating companies forms part of ongoing efforts to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries through targeted policies, programmes and strategic interventions.

These initiatives are designed to strengthen the competitiveness of local businesses, encourage value-added production, expand access to new markets and unlock additional commercial opportunities.

At the exhibition, the four companies will showcase their capabilities, engage with potential customers, forge business partnerships and explore new trade opportunities aimed at expanding their commercial footprint.

The event will also provide a valuable platform for engagement between the dtic and industry stakeholders. Visitors to the department’s exhibition stand will be able to interact directly with officials, learn more about available business support and gain insight into programmes and incentives aimed at strengthening the forestry sector and supporting its long-term growth.

The dtic reaffirmed its commitment to implementing industrial policy measures that support industrialisation, investment, localisation, export growth and job creation, while fostering the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gautrain today marks 16 years since its official launch on 8 June 2010, reaffirming its position as one of South Africa’s most successful and transformative public infrastructure investments.

Since inception, the rapid rail network has recorded more than 216 million passenger trips, firmly establishing itself as a critical part of Gauteng’s transport system and a symbol of modern, efficient mobility in the province.

Launched just days ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Gautrain has grown from a landmark mega-project into a permanent feature of daily life, connecting people to work, education, business, leisure and economic opportunity.

The Gautrain operates an 80-kilometre rail network across 10 stations, supported by an integrated bus and midi-bus feeder system that extends access to thousands of passengers daily. 

“The system continues to play a key role in easing congestion and improving mobility in one of Africa’s largest economic hubs,” the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) said on Monday.

Over the past 16 years, Gautrain has expanded beyond rail transport through innovation and strategic partnerships. These include its pioneering collaboration with the minibus taxi industry through the Gautrain Midi-bus Service, as well as the establishment of smart Driver’s Licence Testing Centres at selected stations.

In line with its commitment to inclusive mobility, Gautrain introduced the KlevaMova affordability product just over a year ago.

“The initiative provides qualifying passengers with a 50% discount on train fares, targeting individuals from households earning R350 000 or less annually, as well as scholars, pensioners, and SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] disability grant recipients. 

“KlevaMova now accounts for approximately 11% of total Gautrain passenger trips, reflecting strong demand for accessible and affordable public transport,” the GMA said.

Gautrain Management Agency Board Chairperson, Professor Mfanelo Ntsobi, said the system represents a long-term national investment in infrastructure that continues to deliver value.

“Gautrain stands as a lasting legacy of what South Africa can achieve when it invests boldly in infrastructure that serves people for generations. It is more than a transport system — it is a catalyst for economic activity and sustainable mobility, connecting people to opportunities every day.”

Ntsobi said as Gautrain enters its next chapter, the Gautrain Management Agency is overseeing a “seamless transition” to a new concessionaire, ensuring uninterrupted service and preserving the high standards of safety, reliability and operational excellence that passengers have come to expect. 

READ | Gautrain to continue operating under PPP model

“Gautrain will continue to operate as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), a model that has underpinned its success over the past 16 years and established it as one of South Africa’s leading infrastructure projects and a recognised example of effective public-private collaboration,” said Ntsobi.

The Gautrain is now 100% owned by the Gauteng Provincial Government. The province fully paid off the initial construction debt and took complete ownership of the multibillion-rand asset after the original PPP with the private consortium Bombela Concession Company ended. 

Sixteen years on, Gautrain continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of mobility in Gauteng. 

“As the province grows, the system remains focused on delivering safe, reliable, and efficient transport that connects people to opportunity and supports long-term economic development,” the GMA said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) continue to intensify efforts aimed at disrupting and dismantling organised criminal networks involved in illicit mining, gang-related violence and other serious and violent crimes.

“During the month of May 2026, coordinated multidisciplinary operations conducted across five provinces resulted in the arrest of 1 287 suspects for a range of serious offences,” the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) said in a statement. 

The suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from illicit mining-related offences, murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, unlawful possession of gold-bearing material, contravention of the Immigration Act, to possession of suspected stolen property and various other serious offences.

Operation Prosper currently comprises personnel drawn from multiple law enforcement and security agencies, who are deployed across identified high-risk areas in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West and Western Cape. 

“Through a coordinated and intelligence-driven approach, operational teams continue to conduct targeted interventions aimed at restoring law and order in crime hotspots and areas affected by illicit mining and gang-related activities.

“Operational activities include high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints, roadblocks, cordon-and-search operations and intelligence-led enforcement actions, resulting in significant arrests and the seizure of illicit commodities, firearms and criminal infrastructure,” the Natjoints said.

Arrests during May 2026

▪️ 8 suspects were arrested for murder.

▪️ 384 suspects were arrested for drug-related offences.

▪️ 4 suspects were arrested for assault GBH.

▪️ 9 suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

▪️ 6 suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of ammunition.

▪️ 4 suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of gold-bearing material.

▪️ 363 suspects were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act.

▪️ 7 suspects were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property.

▪️ 502 suspects were arrested for offences including robbery, possession of dangerous weapons, malicious damage to property, contravention of the Second-Hand Goods Act, contravention of the Road Traffic Act, fraud and liquor-related offences.

Items recovered and confiscated

Joint operational teams also recovered and confiscated the following items during operations conducted across the five provinces:

▪️ 31 illegal and unlicensed firearms and 11 replica firearms.

▪️ 1 703 rounds of ammunition and 7 magazines.

▪️ 13 740 litres of illicit alcohol.

▪️ 1 stolen vehicle was recovered.

▪️ Gold-bearing material was discovered.

▪️ Various quantities of drugs, including dagga, mandrax, heroin and CAT, were also discovered.

Operation Prosper forms part of the national crime-fighting initiative announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2026 State of the Nation Address. 

“SAPS and SANDF remain committed to working alongside other law enforcement and government stakeholders to ensure that criminal networks are disrupted, offenders are brought to justice and communities are made safer. 

“As the operation progresses into its next phase, the operational tempo will intensify, and deployed members will maintain the application of sustained pressure on criminal elements operating within affected areas,” the Natjoints said. – SAnews.gov.za

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