# The Bureau for Economic Research says South Africa is surviving, not thriving. Gross domestic product growth is expected at just 1.3-percent next year, and private sector investment remains far below pre-Covid-19 levels. They warn that growth is held back by low private investment, red tape, and corruption, despite rising consumer spending. Businesses report struggles with delayed government payments, crime-related costs, and excessive bureaucracy. Many business owners worry 2025 could be the year they can no longer keep going.
Bureau for Economic Research warns SA is surviving, not thriving, as growth stalls