| AT CHAMBER: TELEPHONE TRAINING, SMALL BUSINESS NETWORK, MARKETING MIX, FACTORY VISIT |
It’s a busy week ahead at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business with a business skills training session, small business network, marketing forum meeting and an industry network gathering at Anderson Engineering.
Tomorrow morning, Ann-Rose Oldham is conducting her popular telephone reception course for frontline office staff that covers a full range of roles and responsibilities. Contact Thabisile on (033) 345 2747 or at info@pmcb.org.za for more information.
Tomorrow afternoon from 3 pm, Timoth Obaje will present Community as Capital at the Small Business Network meeting. Small businesses do not grow in isolation - they grow within communities. This presentation explores how local engagement can become a powerful form of capital for entrepreneurs and small enterprises. Contact Thabisile on (033) 345 2747 or at info@pmcb.org.za for more information.
On Wednesday, presenter Dale Nadasan will discuss the management of social styles and having the right conversation at the right time at the Marketing Mix forum, scheduled for 3 pm. Contact Heidi on (033) 345 2747 or at pmcb@pmcb.org.za for more information.
On Thursday, PMCB members have the opportunity to visit Anderson Engineering during an Industry Networking meeting. Due to limited space, a maximum of two people per company will be permitted to attend and will be required to follow a number of safety rules including wearing long pants and closed leather shoes. The meeting is from 3-5 pm. Contact Thabisile on (033) 345 2747 or info@pmcb.org.za.
|
| RAMPANT METER TAMPERING FORCES RATES CERTIFICATE AUDIT |
 |
Members of the Msunduzi Electricity Supply Services Business Unity have been inspecting electricity meters in a concerted drive to root out tampering. Residents are urged to request identification for their safety to ensure the inspectors are authorised.
Msunduzi Municipality has launched mandatory audits of all electricity and water meters amid a surge in illegal connections and tampering by households. The measure affects all properties undergoing transfers, ensuring purchasers are not prejudiced and supply integrity is maintained.
The municipality says the audits are critical to reducing revenue losses, combating electricity and water theft, and safeguarding service delivery. While the process may delay the issuance of rates clearance certificates, a new system is being developed to speed up meter inspections and certificate approvals. Municipal officials urge conveyancers and residents to cooperate fully to protect the city’s essential utilities.
|
| UPPER UTHUKELA WATER FUND PROTECTS CRITICAL KZN SUPPLY |
2020: President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a COVID-19 national state of disaster.
Elsewhere, in 1998, Titanic won a record 11 Oscars.
Keep and eye on the weather, on World Meteorological Day |
CALLS FOR CALM OVER ‘PANIC BUYING’ OF FUEL
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and the Fuels Industry Association have urged South Africans to avoid panic-buying, reassuring that national fuel supplies remain stable. Concerns stem from blockages in the Strait of Hormuz after the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, which have spurred specualtion about diesel and petrol prices surging above R8/l and R5/l respectively.
Authorities stress that local logistical challenges are operational, not indicative of shortages. Fuel deliveries for March and early April are secured, while medium-term strategies include diversifying imports, expanding storage, and upgrading infrastructure. Emergency global oil reserves have also begun releases to stabilise markets. (SOURCE: BDLive/Reuters)
|
… AS DIESEL PRICE SURGES NEAR RECORD NINE RAND
South African motorists face a sharp diesel price hike, now approaching R9 per litre, as global oil prices soar amid Middle East tensions and a weaker Rand. Analysts warn the increase will push up transport and logistics costs, feeding into higher prices for food and goods nationwide. Eskom and fuel retailers are also grappling with under-recovery - the shortfall when the regulated fuel price is below the cost of supply- which adds pressure for price adjustments. Businesses with tight margins may struggle, while households face rising living expenses. The spike could complicate monetary policy, making interest rate cuts unlikely. Consumers and industry are bracing for a prolonged impact on costs. (SOURCE: News24) |
… AND HOPES FOR INTEREST RATE REPRIEVE EVAPORATES
The surge in global oil prices in the Middle East conflict has likely ruled out an interest rate cut by the South African Reserve Bank this week. Despite inflation easing to 3% in February, a sharp fuel price hike - expected to rise about 26% in April - has worsened the outlook. Rising inflation expectations, now above 5%, further complicate policy decisions. Economists say the Reserve Bank must prioritise future price stability amid uncertainty over the war’s duration. While rates are expected to remain on hold for now, some analysts warn that persistent inflation pressures could even trigger a rate hike later in 2026. (SOURCE: BDLive)
|
POULTRY INDUSTRY RENEWS CALL FOR ZERO VAT ON CHICKEN
The South African Poultry Association (Sapa) renewed its campaign last week to remove the 15% VAT on chicken portions, highlighting the burden on low-income households. Speaking to parliamentary finance committees, Sapa’s Izaak Breitenbach stressed that President Cyril Ramaphosa and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana recognised the need to ease food pressures. He noted the 2026 Budget offered only minor grant increases, failing to address rising food costs or expand zero-rated basic foods. Breitenbach proposed removing VAT on frozen chicken, offal, and other commonly consumed parts, arguing this targeted relief would significantly benefit vulnerable communities reliant on chicken as a primary protein source. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
|
CHINESE IMPORTS TO FACE TIGHTENED SAFETY CHECKS
South Africa is set to tighten controls on imports from China, requiring many previously unregulated goods to meet local safety standards under a new directive by trade minister Parks Tau. The move introduces a pre-export verification of conformity (PVOC) system, ensuring products are tested and certified before shipment. Targeted items range from cosmetics and cookware to furniture, toys and building materials. Authorities say the measure will protect consumers from hazardous and substandard goods while shielding local manufacturers from unfair competition. It also aims to curb dumping and reduce costly port rejections. The reforms come as SA’s trade deficit with China widens, highlighting growing pressure to rebalance trade and support domestic industry. (SOURCE: BDLive)
|
LOYALTY PROGRAMMES STRIKE CHORD WITH 85% SHOPPERS
Up to 85% of South African consumers actively use loyalty programmes, highlighting their growing importance in managing household budgets. The latest Truth & BrandMapp Loyalty Whitepaper shows participation has risen steadily, with users now engaging in an average of 10.4 programmes, more than double a decade ago. Market leaders include Checkers Xtra Savings, Clicks ClubCard and FNB eBucks, while Discovery Vitality ranks as the most valued overall. Loyalty benefits, especially cashback, are increasingly seen as financial necessities rather than perks. Despite digital growth, physical cards remain the preferred method of engagement, reflecting a mature and globally recognised loyalty market. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
|
SAPPI SEEKS 5% TARIFF SHIELD AGAINST CHEAP IMPORTS
Sappi has applied for a 5% tariff on imported newsprint, warning that South Africa’s last remaining producer faces collapse without protection. The application to the International Trade Administration Commission highlights mounting pressure from low-cost imports amid global overcapacity and declining demand due to digital migration. Sappi’s Ngodwana mill, the only such facility in the region, supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to the economy. The company argues tariffs are essential to prevent dumping, ensure fair competition and sustain local manufacturing. Authorities are now assessing the request as concerns grow over the broader impact of cheap imports on industry viability. (SOURCE: BDLive)
|
PAPER RECYCLING RATE RISES TO 63.3%
South Africa’s paper recycling rate rose to 63.3% in 2025, up from 60% in 2024, reflecting steady progress in waste recovery efforts. About 1.2 million tonnes of paper and packaging are diverted from landfill annually through mills, collectors and informal waste pickers. Industry body PAMSA says consumer participation is improving, but poor waste separation still limits gains. Paper and cardboard remain key recyclable materials, with households and businesses urged to keep them clean and dry. Every tonne recycled saves valuable landfill space. Small behavioural changes, officials say, can significantly boost recycling rates and support a more sustainable circular economy. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
|
ESKOM TO PILOT CARBON-CAPTURE TECH AT COAL PLANT
Eskom is set to pilot carbon capture technology at the Kendall coal-fired power stations, marking a key step in efforts to cut emissions while maintaining energy security. The project will test the feasibility of capturing and storing carbon dioxide produced during electricity generation. If successful, it could help extend the lifespan of coal assets while aligning with climate commitments. The utility faces pressure to reduce its carbon footprint amid global and local transition demands. The trial will also assess costs, scalability and operational impact, informing future decisions on cleaner energy investments and South Africa’s broader decarbonisation strategy. (SOURCE: News24)
|
ZIMBABWEAN-PERMIT CONTROVERSY HEADS TO BACK TO COURT
Anti-immigrant group Operation Dudula has launched legal action against Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber over his decision to extend Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) by 18 months, until May 2027. The group argues the minister acted without authority or proper procedure, seeking a new directive requiring 180 000 ZEP holders to apply for alternative documents or return to Zimbabwe. Respondents include the minister, director-general of Home Affairs, and organisations representing ZEP holders. Critics say the challenge is politically motivated, lacks merit, and targets vulnerable immigrants. Previous attempts by Dudula to intervene in ZEP cases were rejected by courts for lacking legal standing. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
|
AFRICAN AIRLINES SCRAMBLE FOR FUEL TO STAY IN THE AIR
African airlines are struggling as jet fuel prices soar amid the US-Israeli war on Iran, causing global supply disruptions. About 70% of Africa’s jet fuel passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making the region highly vulnerable. Prices in South Africa jumped as much as R6 per litre within hours, forcing carriers like FlySafair to add surcharges of up to R367. Fuel accounts for 30–55% of operating costs, amplifying financial pressure. Limited refining capacity and thinning stocks worsen the crisis. Airlines are cutting capacity, adjusting fares, and passing costs to customers, while uncertainty persists about supply stability. (SOURCE: Reuters)
|
... AS COPPER PRICES PLUNGE ON MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
Copper extended losses to three-month lows as the Middle East war rattled markets, raising fears of slowing global growth and higher inflation. The metal dropped 1.8% on the London Metal Exchange following last week’s 6.7% slump, the steepest since April 2025. Rising oil and gas prices are expected to pressure economies and force central banks toward tighter monetary policy. Analysts warn copper has not yet found a bottom, with markets factoring in recession risks. Meanwhile, Chinese fabricators boosted purchases as prices fell below 100,000 yuan per ton, providing some support amid weak international demand. (SOURCE: Reuters)
|
... AND NO NEED FOR 'TOILET PAPER FORTRESS' IN JAPAN
Japan’s government is pleading with citizens not to hoard toilet paper amid fears over the Middle East war, recalling past panic-buying frenzies during the 1973 oil shock, 2011 earthquake, and Covid. Social media shows shoppers stacking TP, cat food, and even Suntory beer, sparking giggles and groans nationwide. Officials reassure the public that 97% of toilet paper is domestically produced, with ample supply to meet demand. “No need to build a TP fortress,” joked one official. While everyone laughs, the message is clear: buy rationally, avoid panic, and maybe skip that 10-pallet shopping spree. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
|
|
|
Don't let someone else's opinion of you become your reality.
Les Brown |
|
|
|
| Dollar | R17.24
| - 1.17% | | Pound | R22.93
| - 0.89% | | Euro | R19.89
| - 0.61% | | Yen | 0.108118 |
| | Yuan | R2.50
| - 0.88% | | Bitcoin | $ 67 746.50 | - 3.91% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 789.02 | - 6.91% | | Gold | $ 4 174.33
| - 7.11% | | Oil | $ 113.34
| + 0.75% | | All Share | 106 979.71
| - 2.81% | | Repo | 6.75 | | | Prime | 10.25 | |
|
|
|
|
|
