A survey conducted between May 18 and June 4, 2026, revealed a significant increase in inflation expectations among economists, business executives, and trade union representatives in South Africa. The findings indicate a growing concern regarding future inflation rates in the country.

South Africa's private sector experienced marginal growth in June, despite a significant decline in business optimism, which has reached its lowest point in five years. This indicates a contrasting trend between economic activity and the sentiment of business leaders in the country.

According to the latest Stanbic Bank Kenya Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), Kenya's private sector activity improved in June, rising to 50 from 46.6 in May. This increase indicates a stabilisation in business conditions, attributed to rising sales.

According to The South African Biz, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) in South Africa decreased to -19 in the second quarter of 2026, down from -7 in the first quarter, indicating a negative sentiment among wealthy South Africans.

In the second quarter of 2026, South African household finances showed signs of easing, although the ratio of household debt to nominal disposable income increased to 62.2% in the first quarter from 61.8% in the previous quarter, according to The South African Biz.

South Africa has improved its position by 10 places in the World Competitiveness Ranking, with the highest score being for prices, ranked seventh. This improvement reflects the South African Reserve Bank's efforts to achieve a 3% inflation target, according to The South African Biz.