In August 2025, South Africa's trade surplus contracted significantly to ZAR 4 billion, down from a revised ZAR 19.6 billion in July. This marks the smallest trade surplus since a deficit was reported in January. The decline was driven by a 6.8% decrease in exports, bringing them to ZAR 171.3 billion, while imports saw a 1.9% increase, reaching ZAR 167.4 billion.