Employment declines in South Africa

Employment in South Africa's formal sector, excluding agriculture, fell 0,7% in the first quarter of 2025.

According to the most recent report from the national statistical agency, Stats SA, total employment decreased by 74,000 jobs (-0,7%) quarter-on-quarter, from 10,653,000 in December 2024 to 10,579,000 in March 2025.

According to the document, this was due to declines in the trade (-52,000 jobs or -2,2%), community services (-17,000 jobs), mining (-4,000), business services (-1,000), construction (-1,000), and electricity (-1,000) sectors.

In contrast, the manufacturing industry increased by 2,000 jobs (0,2%) during the period.

Total employment in South Africa decreased by 95,000 jobs (-0,9% year-on-year) between March 2024 and the same month in 2025.

On the other hand, Stats SA added, part-time employment decreased by 55,000 jobs, representing a 4,6% year-on-year decrease, between March 2024 and March 2025.