South Africa Posts R15.6bn Trade Surplus in October as export momentum builds
South Africa recorded a preliminary trade surplus of R15.6 billion in October 2025, according to the latest trade statistics released by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The surplus reflects exports of R192.2 billion against imports of R176.6 billion, with the data inclusive of trade flows with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Namibia (BELN). While positive, the year-to-date trade surplus of R142.7 billion remains slightly below the R148.1 billion achieved over the same period in 2024, highlighting a trade environment that is steady but still feeling the effects of global volatility.
Year-on-year, however, the picture is more encouraging. Export flows for October increased by 7.4%, rising from R178.9 billion in 2024 to R192.2 billion in 2025. Import flows experienced a similar pace of growth, increasing by 7.3%compared to October last year. On a month-to-month basis, exports rose by R5.2 billion (2.8%), supported primarily by stronger shipments of gold, diamonds, and unwrought aluminium. Imports grew at a faster rate – up R11.8 billion (7.2%) – driven by higher volumes of crude oil, processed petroleum products, and original equipment components.
SARS also confirmed an upward revision to the September 2025 figures, with the previously announced preliminary surplus of R21.8 billion adjusted to R22.3 billion following ongoing Vouchers of Correction (VOCs). This revision underscores the resilience of South Africa’s export sectors despite persistent global supply chain constraints and fluctuating commodity markets.
Overall, the October numbers indicate a stable trade performance buoyed by solid commodity exports and sustained domestic demand for key industrial and energy-related imports. For exporters, financiers, and businesses operating in cross-border value chains, the data points to a competitive and active trade environment heading into the final months of 2025.
The below provides a snapshot of the top 5 export and import product lines.
October 2025 saw mixed movements in South Africa’s trade flows across the world’s regions. These trends highlight both opportunities and challenges for South African exporters as they navigate increasingly complex international markets.
