South Africa is preparing to introduce sweeping reforms aimed at regulating online shopping platforms and strengthening consumer protection in the fast-growing e-commerce sector. The proposed changes, developed in collaboration with the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud, could significantly impact international retailers operating in the country. Offshore platforms may need local representation One of the key…
The South African government has moved a step closer to realising long-standing plans for high-speed rail, as President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a new initiative to attract private sector participation in the country’s rail expansion. Speaking at the National Transport Conference in Johannesburg on 16 March 2026, Ramaphosa confirmed that authorities have issued a Request for…
South African authorities have moved to reassure the public that fuel supplies remain stable, even as rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten to push global oil prices higher in the coming weeks. Concerns have emerged over potential shortages as conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel disrupts key energy markets. However, officials…
South African consumers are bracing for a sharp increase in living costs as electricity tariffs and fuel prices rise almost simultaneously, placing additional strain on already stretched household budgets. Power utility Eskom has confirmed that electricity tariffs for direct customers will increase by 8.76% from 1 April 2026, following approval from the National Energy Regulator…
The United States has formally launched a sweeping trade investigation targeting South Africa and dozens of other economies, marking a significant escalation in Washington’s efforts to address what it describes as unfair global trade practices. The probe, initiated under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, will assess whether countries are engaging in…
Growth strategy targets Gauteng, KZN and Western Cape Walmart has unveiled plans to significantly expand its footprint in South Africa, confirming that 21 additional stores are in the pipeline as it accelerates its national rollout. The announcement follows the opening of the retailer’s third fully branded South African outlet at Eastpoint Shopping Centre in Boksburg,…
South Africa is preparing to tighten its energy efficiency regulations for lighting products, with the second phase of its national light bulb ban scheduled to take effect on 23 May 2026. The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) has confirmed that regulatory systems are in place to implement the next stage, which increases the minimum…
South Africa’s extensive coastline could offer a new frontier in renewable energy development, according to a recent feasibility study conducted by Swedish firm Eco Wave Power. The company has identified potential for approximately 8.3 megawatts of wave-generated electricity at the Port of Ngqura in the Eastern Cape. While modest compared to large-scale power stations, the…
