BUSINESS NEWS - South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance deficit of R16.4 billion in January 2025. 

This deficit was attributable to exports of R149.0 billion and imports of R165.4 billion, inclusive of trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia (BELN).   

The year-to-date (1 January to 31 January 2025) preliminary trade balance deficit of R16.4 billion was a deterioration from the R3.7 billion trade balance deficit for the comparable period in 2024. 

On a year-on-year basis, export flows for January 2025 (R149.0 billion) were 1.2% higher compared to R147.2 billion recorded in January 2024. 

Import flows were higher by 9.6%, having increased from R150.9 billion in January 2024 to R165.4 billion in the current period.   

On a month-on-month basis, exports decreased by R10.2 billion (-6.4%) from R159.2 billion to R149.0 billion between December 2024 and January 2025, whilst imports increased by R20.9 billion (14.4%) from R144.5 billion to R165.4 billion over the same period. 

Export flows decreased in January 2025, driven by Gold, Vehicles (Goods), and PGMs. Import flows increased on the back of higher importation of Original Equipment Components, Aeroplanes, and Parts & Accessories of Motor Vehicles. 

Due to ongoing Vouchers of Correction (VOCs), the preliminary trade balance surplus of R15.5 billion announced for December 2024 was revised downwards by R0.8 billion, with the final number at R14.7 billion. 

Click here for Merchandise Trade Statistics January 2025

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