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…
South Africa’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has raised concerns that some students may be using government-funded allowances for online gambling, highlighting a growing challenge in safeguarding public funds allocated for education. The warning, issued in collaboration with the National Gambling Board, comes amid increasing exposure of young people to digital betting platforms. Officials…
South Africa is increasingly being identified as a major operational base for international scam networks, particularly those linked to Nigerian organised crime groups, according to a recent global report on fraud operations. The study highlights Johannesburg and Cape Town as primary centres where scam activities are coordinated. These operations range from small, decentralised units to…
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 has introduced a new visa reform initiative aimed at strengthening its position as a leading destination for international conferences, exhibitions and major events. The Department of Home Affairs this week unveiled the Meetings, Exhibitions, Events and Tourism Scheme (MEETS), designed to simplify and accelerate visa processing for large groups travelling to the country….
The “China in Springtime: China’s Development Opportunities for the World” Global Dialogue, organized by China Media Group (CMG), was held in Cape Town, South Africa on Tuesday. The city’s historic landmark, the Castle of Good Hope, welcomed around 100 representatives from the business, academic, and media communities of China and Africa. Shen Haixiong, vice minister…
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…
A growing wave of kidnappings in South Africa is raising alarm as criminal syndicates shift their focus to ordinary daily routines, including visits to shopping malls, school runs and commuting. Recent data from the South African Police Service (SAPS) shows that nearly 4,800 kidnapping cases were recorded between October and December 2025, averaging around 53…
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…
