| BRACE FOR SEPTEMBER PAIN AT THE BOWSER AT MIDNIGHT |
Fuel users face sharp fuel price increases from midnight with petrol rising R1.34 a litre and diesel climbing R2.94 to R3.15. Illuminating paraffin increases R2.13 a litre, while LPG rises 69c/kg nationally on the back of higher international oil prices, conflict-related supply shortages and tighter global inventories. Brent crude rose from $82.37 to $87.88 a barrel, while the Rand strengthened from R16.46 to R16.21 against the Dollar, providing some relief. A higher slate levy of 83.28c a litre will also apply, following a R9.52 billion negative balance. Petrol prices additionally include a 4.9c wage-related increase for forecourt workers.
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| COMRADES CHARITIES SHARE R7.1 MILLION AS 2027 RECORD BECKONS |
Representatives from the six benefitting charities at the official hand over.
The 2026 Comrades Marathon generated R7.166 million for its six official charities through the Amabeadibeadi Charity Drive, taking the initiative’s three-decade fundraising total beyond R91 million. Race4Charity was the biggest contributor at R4.57 million, followed by Amabeadibeadi donations of R908 302, entry donations of R384 566 and Toyota Win-a-Car proceeds of R332 300. The six beneficiaries include CHOC, SANParks Honorary Rangers, Community Chest, Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust, Rise Against Hunger and Childline KZN. Looking ahead, the 2027 centenary campaign has already raised more than R9.2 million, driven by 1 000 special charity entries costing R10 000 each. |
| TAKING YOUR BUSINESS GLOBAL WITH ONE CLICK DIGITAL PORTAL |
The Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business is inviting interested parties to a free information session, in partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), to introduce ICC One Click, a powerful digital gateway to global markets.
The online presentation will explore AI-powered trade support, export readiness, market access, trade documentation, compliance and practical tools for SMME growth tomorrow from 2-3 pm on the Microsoft Teams platform. Join here with this link with the meeting ID: 371699697162607 and passcode: w5xY9i6q.
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| HILTON COLLEGE PIONEERS MEDICAL DEGREE ABROAD |
| Hilton College has entered a partnership with St George’s University (SGU) in Grenada to offer an alternative pathway for South African students seeking a medical degree amid fierce competition for limited places at local medical schools. Qualifying school leavers can enter SGU’s five-year Doctor of Medicine programme, beginning studies in Grenada or at Northumbria University in the UK. The agreement provides admissions guidance, guaranteed interviews and potential merit-based scholarships. Students can undertake clinical rotations through SGU’s network of more than 75 hospitals and healthcare centres across the US and UK. With just 10 medical schools nationally, demand far exceeds capacity. SGU’s HPCSA recognition provides eligible graduates a route towards practising in South Africa. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
| MIDLANDS CLAMPDOWN NETS 12 UNDOCUMENTED TRUCK DRIVERS |
KZN authorities arrested 12 undocumented foreign truck drivers during a weekend operation targeting the freight sector, intensifying enforcement across the Midlands. Road Traffic Inspectorate officers intercepted a company truck in Pietermaritzburg, leading to the arrest of the operator for employing an undocumented driver. The owner subsequently paid a R2 500 admission-of-guilt fine for contravening the Immigration Act. The operation involved Home Affairs, Employment and Labour, SAPS and municipalities including Msunduzi, uMshwathi, Mkhambathini and Richmond. Transport MEC Siboniso Duma warned freight companies of severe consequences for employing undocumented workers, alleging some businesses exploit cheaper labour and bypass statutory employment requirements, fuelling tensions in the transport industry. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
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1853: First postage stamp in Africa was issued in the Cape Colony.
Elsewhere, in 1985, the wreck of the Titanic was found in the North Atlantic Ocean, 73 years after sinking on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City.
Today marks the first day of spring in the southern hemisphere, and is also observed as World Letter Writing Day.
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LABOUR LAWS, RED TAPE CONSTRAIN BUSINESS GROWTH
Strict labour legislation and regulatory compliance have emerged as major obstacles to business growth, according to a 2026 Business Environment Survey of 369 firms. Commissioned by the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry and conducted by Stellenbosch University’s Bureau for Economic Research, the survey conducted nationally found almost 80% of the largest employers regarded labour laws as a serious constraint, with skills shortages close behind.
Some businesses said employment-equity requirements discouraged expansion beyond 50 employees because of added costs and compliance burdens. Labour rules were particularly problematic for manufacturers and construction firms. The survey also highlighted failing freight infrastructure, state-owned enterprises, regulators and municipal services as significant constraints. Chamber CEO John Lawson said reforming labour rules could help businesses access scarce skills, expand and create jobs. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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TRADE SURPLUS WIDENS AS AFRICAN EXPORTS SURGE
South Africa’s trade surplus widened to R20.1 billion in July from R17.2 billion in June, signalling stronger external trade performance despite persistent regional imbalances. The improvement was driven largely by a sharp rise in the country’s surplus with African trading partners. However, this was partly offset by growing deficits with both Asia and the Americas. The latest figures highlight the increasingly important role of intra-African trade in supporting South Africa’s external position, while also underscoring its dependence on imports from major Asian and American markets. The figures come amid efforts to strengthen regional economic integration and diversify export markets. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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ESKOM SALES PLUNGE 6.1% AS PROFITS DOUBLE
Eskom’s electricity sales fell another 6.1% to 178 TWh in 2026, down from more than 224 TWh in 2012. Industrial sales suffered the sharpest decline, dropping 9.7 TWh, or 22.5%, largely because of weaker ferrochrome smelter demand. Eskom is targeting new consumption to stabilise annual sales at 178 TWh, supported by discounted tariffs for smelters. The utility estimates a 2 GW to 3 GW surplus available for new demand. Despite declining sales, profit more than doubled to R30.3 billion from R14 billion, while revenue rose to R354.7 billion from R340.8-billion. Diesel spending plunged to R7 billion from R18 billion, compared with more than R36 billion two years earlier. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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... AND EYES CROSS-BORDER MARKETS ON SURGING SURPLUS OUTPUT
Eskom plans to use growing electricity surpluses to stimulate demand and expand exports, with Mozal in Mozambique among potential major customers. CEO Dan Marokane says the utility must find new markets as improved generation capacity, falling demand and increasing competition reshape the electricity sector. Eskom is exploring opportunities to sell additional power domestically and across borders while keeping electricity affordable. The strategy reflects a significant shift from years of supply shortages towards managing excess capacity. Marokane also stressed the need for skilled executives to help Eskom compete more effectively in an increasingly open electricity market. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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... AS CAPE TOWN BANKS 19% CHEAPER SOLAR POWER
Cape Town has signed two 20-year power purchase agreements totalling 70 MW with solar projects in Atlantis and Philippi, securing electricity at rates 19% to 21% below current Eskom prices. The city plans to procure up to 200 MW from independent producers through competitive tenders, reducing reliance on Eskom. The two agreements are expected to involve R8 billion in electricity purchases over their full terms, with price increases linked to consumer inflation rather than Eskom’s tariffs. The projects are also expected to avoid nearly two million tons of carbon emissions, generating tradable carbon credits. Cape Town has already earned R36 million from waste-to-energy carbon credits, which it says can help fund further infrastructure investment. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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SASOL SECUNDA POLLUTION LINKED TO 1 000 DEATHS A YEAR
Pollution from Sasol’s Secunda coal-to-fuels complex is associated with about 1,000 deaths annually, according to a forthcoming study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The facility emits substantial quantities of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, with researchers estimating billions of rand in related health and economic costs. Sasol said it would study the findings before commenting. The plant has received exemptions allowing less stringent sulphur dioxide limits than South Africa’s general standards. Researchers say emissions contribute to respiratory illness, chronic disease, adverse birth outcomes and productivity losses. The findings intensify pressure on government to tighten pollution regulations. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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AIRLINK DEFENDS DOUBLE FLYPAST IN BOKS-ALL BLACK TEST
Airlink has defended its controversial double flypast over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium during Saturday’s Springboks-All Blacks rugby Test, saying the manoeuvres complied with aviation safety requirements. The airline said each aircraft was flown by three highly experienced senior captains, with the operation carefully planned and rehearsed. Flight-tracking data showed one jet passing less than 15 metres above the stadium, prompting criticism alongside widespread online admiration. Airlink said the flights remained within the aviation authority’s approved speed and altitude limits. The spectacle revived South Africa’s tradition of passenger jets buzzing stadiums, dating back to the 1995 Rugby World Cup final. The Springboks won 33-26. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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INDUSTRY SEEKS CLARITY ON CHINESE TRANSMISSION INVESTMENT
South African industry bodies are seeking clarity over reports that six Chinese manufacturers plan to establish Gauteng facilities supplying products for the National Transmission Company South Africa’s transmission expansion programme. The Power Line and Substation Association, Manufacturing Circle, Steel and Engineering Industries Federation and Association of Electric Cable Manufacturers have raised concerns about potential impacts on established local manufacturers. They argue South Africa already possesses industrial capacity, skills, technology and supply chains that should be strengthened through the programme. While Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has said local capacity may be insufficient, he pledged localisation measures. Industry groups want clarity on ownership, procurement, market access and impacts on existing manufacturers, calling for an urgent meeting with government and NTCSA. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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... AS CHINESE CARMAKERS WOO EV AND BAKKIE DRIVERS
Chinese automakers are rapidly expanding their South African presence, targeting electric vehicles, hybrids and the lucrative pickup market. At the WesBank Festival of Motoring, Changan, Dongfeng, BAIC, Geely and Chery showcased new models, intensifying competition with established brands. WesBank says Chinese vehicles accounted for about 40% of new vehicles it financed last month, compared with just 0.01% in 2016. Dongfeng plans to expand its local portfolio to about 14 models by Q1 2027, from three currently. Omoda & Jaecoo targets a 40% new-energy vehicle share by end-2027, up from 19%. BAIC’s ARCFOX T1 electric SUV launches in October, while Chinese brands increasingly challenge Toyota, Ford and Isuzu in pickups. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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FORD RECALLS 2 275 RANGERS OVER AIRBAG SAFETY RISK
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has recalled 2 275 Ranger Double Cab vehicles over a potential side-curtain airbag safety defect. The recall covers 2026–2027 production-year vehicles sold through Ford dealers between 22 May and 23 June 2026. The side-curtain airbags may interact with B-Pillar trim during deployment, potentially preventing correct inflation. The B-Pillar component could also detach and become a projectile, increasing injury risks. Affected vehicles were sold in South Africa and exported to Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini. Owners are urged to contact authorised Ford dealers for inspections and repairs, which will be completed free of charge. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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CALLS MOUNT FOR AFRICAN CREDIT RATINGS AGENCY
The call for an African credit rating agency has been reiterated as the African Union moves to launch a continent-wide alternative to dominant global ratings firms. The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) is expected to launch the agency in Mauritius on 5 October 2026, according to AU adviser Paul Sikazwe. African leaders have long argued that Fitch, Moody’s and S&P Global unfairly assess African sovereign risk and contribute to high borrowing costs. The new agency aims to provide ratings reflecting African economic realities while supporting reform of the international financial architecture. The initiative comes as debt pressures and sovereign defaults continue across the continent. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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ASIAN DIESEL EXPORTS TO AFRICA HIT FOUR-YEAR HIGH
Asian diesel exports to Africa are expected to reach 1.8 million to 2-million tons in August, the highest in at least four-and-a-half years, as buyers replace disrupted Middle Eastern supplies. Middle Eastern exports fell to only 600 000 to 800 000 tons, their lowest level in almost nine years, amid shipping risks around Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz. Last year, the Middle East supplied about 50% of Africa’s diesel imports, with Saudi Arabia accounting for 40% of that volume. Saudi Aramco’s Jazan refinery shipped no diesel to Africa in August, compared with 163,000 tons in July. Asian refiners’ margins rose to $66 a barrel from $61, encouraging higher production. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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... AS OIL PRICES SURGE ON ESCALATING HORMUZ SHIPPING RISKS
Oil prices climbed as renewed US-Iran strikes heightened fears over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent approaching $91 a barrel. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed a supertanker struck two mines while attempting to transit the strategic waterway, although the incident was not independently confirmed. Washington said its forces had targeted Iranian rocket launchers preparing to deploy mines, while Iran reported attacks on US bases in Jordan. Hormuz remains crucial, with an estimated six to eight million barrels of crude still moving through the waterway daily. Meanwhile, disrupted refining capacity is pushing diesel prices higher, adding pressure to global consumers. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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GLACIER COLLAPSE LEAVES 919 DEAD, THOUSANDS MISSING
At least 919 people have died and about 4 800 remain missing after a glacial collapse triggered devastating floods and debris across Nepal and neighbouring Tibet. Nepal recorded 903 deaths and 4 247 missing, while China reported 16 deaths and 546 missing in Tibet’s Gyirong County. More than 10 000 people have been rescued, with nearly 20 000 security personnel deployed as rescue teams struggle to reach isolated communities. At least 12 hydropower projects were damaged, with 933 people linked to those facilities reported missing. Nepal has requested international assistance, including specialised equipment, drones and forensic expertise, as reconstruction challenges mount. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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As long as there are memories, yesterday remains.
Billy Joel |
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| Dollar | R16.13 | - 0.05% | | Pound | R21.84
| + 0.05% | | Euro | R18.71 | + 0.09% | | Yen | 0.100757 |
| | Yuan | R2.40
| - 0.08% | | Bitcoin | $ 78 852.12 | - 0.16% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 817.70
| + 1.52% | | Gold | $ 4 433.67 | - 0.17% | | Oil | $ 91.17 | + 1.12% | | All Share | 116 257.16
| - 1.62% | | Repo | 7.00 | | | Prime | 10.50 | |
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