FX.co ★ South Africa Logs Widest Trade Surplus in 6 Months

In September 2025, South Africa's trade surplus expanded significantly to ZAR 21.8 billion, marking an increase from a revised ZAR 2.4 billion recorded in the previous month. This figure represents the most substantial trade surplus since March of the current year. The growth was primarily driven by a 9.4% rise in exports, reaching ZAR 186.4 billion, particularly due to a 34% surge in precious metals and stones. Notable increases were also observed in the export of mineral products and base metals, both at 8%, and vehicles and transport equipment at 7%. However, exports of vegetable products experienced a decline of 6%. On the import side, there was a 2% reduction, totaling ZAR 164.6 billion, mainly attributed to decreased purchases of original equipment components, which fell by 18%, along with a 20% drop in vegetable products and a 17% decrease in precious metals and stones.