South Africa Manufacturing Output Falls 4.3% in August
South Africa's manufacturing output declined by 4.3% in August 2026, reflecting continued pressure on the country's industrial sector. Illustrative image. South Africa Manufacturing Output Falls 4.3% in August JOHANNESBURG, 9 October 2026 — South Africa's manufacturing sector suffered a significant setback in August, with factory production declining by 4.3% compared with the same month last year, according to figures released by Statistics South Africa. The latest figures, published on Thursday, 8 October, reveal a sharp reversal from July, when manufacturing output had increased by 1.1% year-on-year. The decline highlights ongoing difficulties for South African manufacturers as businesses face weak demand, higher production costs and uncertain economic conditions. Factory Production Drops 3.1% in One Month On a seasonally adjusted basis, manufacturing production fell by 3.1% in August compared with July. This followed a 2.2% monthly increase in July. According to Statis...