South Africa is positioning itself to become a significant player in the global pistachio market, with industry stakeholders targeting rapid expansion over the next decade. Karoo region offers ideal conditions for pistachio farming The country’s ambitions are largely centred on the semi-arid Karoo region, where climatic conditions are considered particularly favourable for pistachio cultivation. Pistachio…
South African consumers are being urged to prepare for higher grocery bills as global oil price increases and supply chain disruptions begin to filter through to local retailers. Major supermarket groups, including Checkers, Pick n Pay, and Spar, could soon face mounting pressure to adjust prices as the cost of fuel, logistics, and production continues…
South Africans attempting to secure home loans using forged financial documents are being warned of severe consequences, including criminal charges and long-term financial blacklisting. According to Hannah van Deventer, national director at Phoenix Bonds, the growing availability of fake payslips and bank statements online has become a serious concern. Some documents can reportedly be purchased…
South Africa’s tax authority has expanded its communication strategy and is now contacting taxpayers directly through WhatsApp as part of efforts to recover outstanding tax debt. Digital communication replaces traditional methods In the past, SARS primarily communicated with taxpayers through letters and email. However, the revenue authority is now using instant messaging platforms to ensure…
Alleged financial hub of Southeast Asian scam operations International authorities are searching for a South African businessman accused of playing a key role in a global fraud and money laundering network believed to have handled more than $1.5 billion. The suspect, Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as Ben Berger or Ben Smith, has been identified by…
Potential co-manufacturing plan under discussion Mercedes-Benz Group is exploring the possibility of sharing its vehicle manufacturing facility in South Africa with Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor (GWM), according to people familiar with the discussions. The talks involve Mercedes’ long-standing assembly plant in the coastal city of East London, one of South Africa’s most significant automotive…
First direct satellite mobile test completed in Zambia MTN has taken a significant step toward satellite-based mobile connectivity in Africa after its Zambian operation successfully completed field testing of SpaceX’s Starlink direct-to-cell technology. The telecommunications company announced that MTN Zambia became the first mobile network operator on the continent to conduct a successful satellite-to-mobile phone…
One of South Africa’s largest financial institutions has entered into a strategic partnership with a global cryptocurrency exchange in a move that reflects the growing influence of digital finance across Africa. Nedbank, one of the country’s “Big Four” banks, announced a collaboration with Crypto.com to develop blockchain-based payment and settlement solutions designed for the African…
South Africa accounts for the largest share of deepfake-related identity fraud in Southern Africa, according to a new report highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence in digital scams. The findings were published in the 2026 Digital Identity Fraud Report by Smile ID, which examined biometric verification trends and identity fraud patterns across the region….
A slice of Cape heritage with 300 years of history seeks new owner A piece of South African history—steeped in colonial heritage, fine wine, and liberation politics—is set to change hands. Bloemendal Wine Estate, a 238-hectare property in the heart of the Cape Winelands, will go to auction on 25 March with a reserve price…
