Economic analysts are expecting positive economic growth figures for the first quarter of 2026 when Statistics South Africa (SA) releases gross domestic product (GDP) data this morning.
The anticipated growth is expected to be supported by mining and agricultural output, while consumer spending patterns are also expected to contribute to economic momentum.
Analysts say the inflationary impact of higher oil prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East is only likely to be reflected in second-quarter economic data.
Makwe Fund Managers analyst, Makwe Masilela, says the performance of key sectors could support growth.
Masilela explains, “We hope the likes of mining which accounts for just under 6% our economy and was up 0.6% in Quarter (Q10 one will at least try to help.”
“Also, when it comes to consumer spending which accounts for almost 60% of our economy that will also help the situation given that inflation during that period was also manageable and a little bit low, while interest rates were also still decent enough meaning they were not yet increased, and the impact of this Iran war will only start to filter in Q2,” Masilela says.
–SABC–
