Economic Growth - South Africa's GDP grew by 0.8% in Q2 2025, marking the strongest growth quarter in nearly two years, indicating robust economic momentum [1][5] - The growth follows a slight increase of 0.1% in Q1 2025, demonstrating a continuation of positive economic trends [1] Sector Performance - Key sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and trade led the supply-side growth, while household consumption and reduced imports contributed to demand-side growth [2] - Manufacturing output increased by 1.8%, driven by the automotive, petroleum, chemicals, rubber, and plastics sectors [2] - Mining output rose by 3.7%, the fastest growth since Q1 2021, with platinum group metals, gold, and chrome contributing significantly [2] - The trade, accommodation, and food services sectors grew by 1.7%, reaching the highest level since Q1 2022 [2] - Agriculture continued its positive trend with a third consecutive quarter of growth, supported by increased horticultural and livestock activities [2] Consumer Activity - Household consumption has shown consistent growth for five consecutive quarters, with a 0.8% increase in Q2 2025, fueled by spending in dining, hospitality, clothing, and insurance [2][4] - The retail trade, automotive trade, and food and beverage sectors also experienced growth, contributing positively to the overall economic performance [4] Challenges and Declines - Despite the overall growth, there were declines in demand for alcoholic beverages and housing-related services, as well as a drop in wholesale trade [3] - The construction sector contracted for the third consecutive quarter, with a decline of 0.3%, and transportation, storage, and communication sectors also saw a decrease of 0.8% [3] - Fixed capital investment fell by 1.4%, marking a third consecutive quarter of decline [3] Government Response and Outlook - The South African government views the Q2 2025 economic data as a sign of resilience amid global trade challenges, emphasizing the effectiveness of policies aimed at stimulating growth and supporting local industries [4][5] - Economic analysts predict a moderate acceleration in South Africa's economy, despite the low growth rate, indicating an overall improving trend [5]

Core Points - The China (Shanxi) - Kazakhstan (Aktobe) Investment and Trade Cooperation Forum was held in Taiyuan, Shanxi, focusing on new investment opportunities and promoting economic cooperation between Shanxi and Aktobe [1][2] - The permanent comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Kazakhstan is progressing, with robust development in economic, trade, and investment cooperation [1] - Shanxi and Aktobe are both energy-rich regions with strong industrial foundations and complementary economies, indicating broad prospects for cooperation [1][2] Economic Cooperation - Shanxi has established a cargo route to Almaty in 2024, with an import and export volume reaching 2.119 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 930% [2] - The new contracts signed for engineering projects in Kazakhstan amounted to 217 million USD [2] - The Governor of Aktobe expressed a desire to deepen cooperation in logistics, trade, technology exchange, and tourism, highlighting the potential for direct collaboration [2] Industry Insights - Aktobe is known as an economic and cultural center in western Kazakhstan, famous for its oil production and significant chromium ore reserves [2] - Shanxi aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors, particularly in energy, manufacturing, and agriculture, while also promoting cultural tourism and educational exchanges [2]