| RAS AT CROSSROADS AS NEW ERA DAWNS IN 175TH YEAR |
The Royal Agricultural Society of Natal (RAS) stands at a crossroads as it marks its 175th anniversary under new General Manager Wayne Muller. Currently based at Mount Verde Equestrian Centre in Hilton, the RAS faces a challenging future while seeking to remain relevant in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. Muller has begun consolidating ties with business groupings and industry bodies, includng the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business and Kwanalulu, as well as regional shows in Bloemfontein and Pretoria and KZN shows in Winterton, Underberg and Eston as part of a renewed outreach strategy. These efforts aim to strengthen partnerships ahead of the 2026 Royal Show - from 29 May to 3 June - at a venue still to be confirmed, ensuring agriculture remains at the heart of its vision.
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| BOPLAAS WINES PASS TASTE TEST IN STYLE |
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(ltr) Brenda Myburgh, Rozanne Nel (Boplaas), Ingo Schröder, Bryce Venter (Hills Wedding Venue and Coffee Shop) and Nick Kieck (VPP Distributors).
The wine offerings from Boplaas in Calitzdorp in the Klein Karoo were celebrated at a recent tasting hosted at Hills Wedding Venue and Coffee Shop. Better known as the epicentre of South African port, Caltizdorp’s crop of wineries also boast established track records in brandy and whisky distilling, and of course wine making. Boplaas, owned by the 6th generation Nel family, is a key player in the region, in no small measure due to its pioneering efforts to cultivate Portuguese varietals. Apart from its prolific output of all things to do with vineyards, Boplaas is also a leading exponent of sustainable farming.
The business side of things keep Rozanne Nel, who is entrusted with marketing, busy and on the road. She presented six wines and two ports, each regaled with a story about their unique origins. An introductory Savignon Blanc was followed by a Portuguse Vedelho, Portuguese bland, Merlot, its signature Ring of Rocks, and flagship Gamka. A pair of ports, a ruby and magnificent tawny, rounded out proceedings of the event organised by Ingo Schröder and Brenda Myburgh. |
| TRANSNET’S PRIVATE PLAY RISKS NEW PROBLEMS ON OLD TRACKS |
The appointment of 11 third-party operators to Transnet’s 41 routes is a welcome step in South Africa’s long-delayed rail reform, potentially boosting freight volumes by 20-million tonnes and attracting billions in investment. However, transparency concerns loom large. Key details - operator identities, slot allocations, fees, and contract lengths - remain undisclosed. While the move promises economic growth and job creation, the lack of clarity raises questions about governance, fairness, and the long-term viability of private participation in a network historically plagued by inefficiency and monopolistic practices.
See below: Nersa secret Eskom deal could cost consumers billions |
1960: A State of Emergency was declared after the Sharpeville Massacre.
Elsewhere, in 1955, the first tennis match was telecast in colour, a Davis Cup tie between Australia and the US in New York by NBC.
Pooch lovers, today is Dog Day or Dog Appreciation Day, a day to pay special attention to your best friend on four legs.
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NERSA SECRET ESKOM DEAL COULD COST CONSUMERS BILLIONS
South Africa’s energy regulator, Nersa, has once again struck a closed-door settlement with Eskom that could force consumers to pay billions more in electricity costs. A former Eskom pricing manager estimates tariffs could rise by as much as 25.24% if Eskom secures R30 billion it claims was lost due to Nersa’s miscalculation of its revenue base. This follows a previous secret R40 billion settlement in May.
Despite the public’s right to know, Nersa has yet to publish details of the new deal. Moneyweb has lodged applications under Paia to obtain the regulator’s reasoning and settlement documents. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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PRIVATE SECTOR AWARDS TO REWARD MUNICIPAL EXCELLENCE
The South African Property Owners Association (Sapoa), with Ratings Afrika and the Banking Association of South Africa, has launched the country’s first national Municipal Performance Awards. The initiative aims to recognise municipalities excelling in governance, fiscal health, and service delivery, despite widespread dysfunction. Ratings Afrika’s 2024 index shows 115 major municipalities collectively recorded R35.3 billion in operating deficits and liquidity shortfalls of R104.9 billion. Sapoa president Itumeleng Mothibeli said the awards highlight municipalities proving financial sustainability is achievable. By showcasing best performers, Sapoa hopes to incentivise reform, rebuild investor confidence, and encourage municipalities to improve fiscal management and long-term service outcomes. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
EMPLOYERS LOBBY SLAMS STEEL TARIFF PLAN OVER JOBS RISK
The National Employers’ Association of SA (Neasa) has launched a campaign against proposed steel import tariffs, warning they could devastate downstream industries and accelerate job losses. The International Trade Administration Commission (Itac) has recommended duties of up to 30% on various steel products to protect ArcelorMittal SA (Amsa). Neasa, representing 1 800 businesses and 65 000 workers, accuses government of shielding Amsa at industry’s expense. Critics argue tariffs will drive up costs, reduce competition, and threaten thousands of jobs in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Final decisions on the R67 billion review remain pending. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
... AS RIVALS ACCUSE AMSA OF PREDATORY PRICING
ArcelorMittal South Africa (Amsa) faces a Competition Tribunal challenge after rivals Cape Gate and Scaw accused it of predatory pricing. The firms allege Amsa used a recent state bailout to slash long steel prices below market rates, threatening to drive competitors out. The complainants argue this tactic undermines fair competition and long-term market stability. They have applied for an urgent interdict to stop Amsa’s practices, spotlighting tensions in South Africa’s embattled steel industry amid government support and market volatility. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
FSCA PLANS TO TIGHTEN RULES FOR OTC DERIVATIVES MARKET
South Africa’s Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) is preparing reforms for the over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives market to boost transparency and reduce systemic risk. Certain products, including interest-rate and forex swaps, repurchase agreements, and forwards, may soon require central clearing through JSE Clear. Commissioner Unathi Kamlana said new capital rules will also apply to non-bank derivatives providers, aligning them with banks. The reforms, expected within three years, follow a seven-year review of a market once valued at R44.7 trillion, aiming to curb arbitrage and strengthen financial stability. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
... AS TREASURY AND BANKS FRET OVER SWIFT CUT-OFF
South Africa’s National Treasury and top banks have held talks on the risk of being cut off from SWIFT, the global payments system, if US lawmakers impose sanctions. A draft bill by Republican Ronny Jackson accuses Pretoria of siding with China, Russia, Iran and “terrorist organisations,” abandoning ties with Washington. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana met bank executives during the Banking Association’s directors’ meeting to assess potential fallout. Relations with the US have worsened under President Trump, who froze aid, imposed 30% tariffs on South African exports, and criticised Pretoria over its genocide case against Israel. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
SASOL POSTS R6.8 BILLION PROFIT, SHARES SURGE 39%
Sasol posted a R6.8 billion net profit for 2025, rebounding from a R44.3 billion loss in 2024. The turnaround stems from cost cuts, stronger output, and strategic shifts under CEO Simon Baloyi, despite soaring carbon credit costs of R723 million. Shares have surged 39% this year after three years of decline. Baloyi plans to boost renewables, cut emissions 30% by 2030, and review assets to strengthen the chemicals business and overall profitability. (SOURCE: SENS) |
ACSA PROFITS TAKE OFF AHEAD OF R21.7 BILLION AIRPORT UPGRADE
Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) more than doubled its net profit to R1.1 billion for FY2025, up from R472 million, driven by 13% revenue growth to R7.9 billion and strong non-aeronautical income. EBITDA rose to R2.9 billion with a 37% margin. Despite modest capex of R861 million, Acsa has outlined a R21.7 billion five-year investment pipeline targeting OR Tambo, Cape Town International, and regional airports, reinforcing its role as custodian of critical national infrastructure. (SOURCE: SENS) |
ITALTILE LIFTS DIVIDENDS DESPITE FLAT PROFITS
JSE-listed Italtile raised total dividends 17%, including a 26% special dividend, despite a 2% turnover dip to R11.3 billion and flat R2.1 billion profit. Efficiency gains cut operating costs 3%, while earnings per share rose slightly. The group grew to 210 stores, with steady online and East Africa growth offsetting weaker ceramic sales. Strong R2.2 billion reserves, low debt, and supply-chain efficiencies position Italtile for resilience amid pricing pressure and import challenges. (SOURCE: SENS) |
SA WARNS AGAINST RUSSIAN JOB SCAMS TARGETING YOUNG WOMEN
South Africa’s women’s ministry has warned citizens, especially young women, against accepting job offers in Russia promoted on social media. The warning follows reports that Russian firms, including Alabuga Start, recruit women aged 18–22 from Africa and other regions under false pretenses, allegedly placing them in drone factories bombed by Ukraine. Officials say these offers are not government-endorsed and may involve human trafficking. Public diplomacy head Clayson Monyela confirmed one South African woman was rescued after being misled. Authorities are engaging the Russian Embassy and investigating recruitment networks linked to the scheme. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
BRACE FOR MORE FLIGHT TURBULENCE AS TEMPERATURES RISE
Rising global temperatures are intensifying air turbulence, researchers warn, posing greater challenges for aviation. Changes in jet streams, caused by warmi6ng at different altitudes, create more frequent and severe clear-air turbulence, which occurs without visible warning. Pilots and airlines face increased safety risks, passenger discomfort, and potential flight delays or rerouting. Studies suggest turbulence incidents could rise significantly over the next decades if greenhouse gas emissions remain high. Aviation authorities and airlines are exploring advanced forecasting technologies and flight planning strategies to mitigate these risks. The trend underscores another hidden impact of climate change on everyday life and global transportation systems. (SOURCE: AFP) |
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TRAINING - LEGAL LIABILITY FOR THE OHS ACT
TRAINER: Mike Heesen – Pro HaS Consultants
OVERVIEW
Legislation is clear that the person seen to be the employer has the responsibility to ensure not only the well-being of his/her employees but also any other person who may be affected by the activities of the employer. This too can be said of managers and supervisors alike.
Discussion will not only explain this legal aspect but will also delve into segments of legislation which are pertinent to all types of businesses, whether they be manufacture, retail or transport etc.
With the Department of Employment and Labour enhancing their efforts with regards to compliance, more often than not, investigations have indicated that the employer has in many instances fallen short of the basic requirements required of them in terms of the Act, which could lead to prosecution, especially for repeat offenders.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
CEO's, Directors, Management, Supervisors. Owners of Companies or those intending to start up a business. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance.
Date: 2 September 2025
Time: 08:30 – 12:30
Venue: PMCB Offices, 1 Parkhaven , 55 Macleroy Road, Northern Park, Pietermaritzburg
COST (Excludes vat) PMCB Members: R682.60 p/p, R643.48 p/p for 3/more, R595.65 p/p for 5/more Non-members: R900 p/p, R882.60 p/p for 3/more, R852.17 p/p for 5/more
Please note: The company will be liable for payment unless CANCELLATION is received in writing 24 hours prior to the event. |
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Moving on, is a simple thing, what it leaves behind is hard.
Dave Mustaine |
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