Africa's most developed economy dodged cuts to its investment-grade rating by Moody's, Fitch and S&P earlier this year but could still slip into "junk" status in the coming months if the economic outlook deteriorates.

"Of course growth is not something you can click your fingers and deliver but rating agencies want to see we are doing enough," Gordhan said at a meeting with business leaders.

The International Monetary Fund last week cut its 2016 GDP growth forecast for South Africa to just 0.1% from the 0.6% it had last predicted in May.

The Treasury has a more optimistic forecast of 0.9%, while the central bank sees 0.6% expansion.

"If growth doesn't come through, we will have to make tough decisions in terms of expenditure," Gordhan said on Tuesday.

--Reuters--