Latest News & Developments
food prices
No appetite for rising food prices
Many essentials, such as white bread, margarine, tea, coffee, and processed foods are taxable, meaning the VAT hike will directly increase their prices
Food prices likely to spike despite improving power supply, fuel costs: Report
While food inflation shows signs of easing, ongoing challenges from loadshedding, high transport costs, and drought conditions continue to threaten food security and strain household budgets. The report reveals changing consumer behaviors, with many South Africans switching to more affordable protein alternatives as they navigate the country's complex food pricing landscape.
SA families face the harsh reality of rising food prices
The March 2025 household affordability index released by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD) indicates that the food basket has increased by R16,14 (0,3%), from R5 313,22 in February 2025 to R5 329,36 in March 2025.
Budget 2025: Food security at stake with 0. 5% VAT hike set to hit households in the belly
South African consumers brace for a significant impact at the checkout as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's 2025 Budget introduces a 0. 5% VAT increase, threatening to escalate food prices and worsen the cost-of-living crisis.
Daybreak Farms reassures stakeholders amid CEO resignation and liquidation rumours
"Daybreak Farms confirms it is not being liquidated amid CEO Richard Manzini's resignation, addressing stakeholder concerns and ongoing financial speculation
Financial troubles at Daybreak Farms: PIC's silence during management crisis
South Africa's state-owned poultry producer Daybreak Farms faces possible liquidation as CEO Richard Manzini resigns following PIC's rejection of a R250m bailout. The crisis threatens chicken prices and industry stability amid mounting debts and operational challenges.
Uber Eats 2024 Report reveals 2,378 orders in a year, R20,000 on whiskey and SA’s chicken obsession
From a R20,000 cognac order to 2,378 deliveries by a single customer, Uber Eats' 2024 Cravings Report unveils extraordinary South African food ordering trends.
South Africa faces avian flu threat: Urgent call for vaccination
South African Poultry Association has raised warning flags South Africa is facing a grave risk from the potential spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
Why are food prices so high? Inside South Africa's grocery wars
Detailed comparison of South Africa's major retailers reveals price gaps of up to R200 on basic groceries, plus expert insights on future food costs and inflation impacts.
Sunfoil brand owner Willowton group agrees to R101m settlement over price manipulation
In addition, the Willowton Group will make donations of food products and groceries to registered non-governmental and non-profit organisations that cater to historically disadvantaged people to the amount of R30 million over five years.
Leadership change at McDonald's South Africa amid global sales decline
McDonald's South Africa announces the departure of CEO Greg Solomon after 15 years of leadership, during which he expanded the restaurant chain to over 400 locations. The leadership change comes as the global fast-food giant faces its first sales decline in three years and increasing competition in the South African market.
Shake it up: How South Africans are embracing meal replacements for health and convenience
A new study shows that South Africans are turning to meal replacements as a practical solution for health and convenience.
Scientists warn of climate threat to chocolate
Failed harvests helped drive a meteoric rise in cocoa prices since late 2023 on the London and New York markets where this commodity is traded.
South Africans struggle to put food on the table
The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa’s president Mametlwe Sebei said: “We demand that the government take immediate action to address the cost-of-living crisis and ensure that workers can afford a decent standard of living. “
South Africa's livestock exports surge as biosecurity measures boost industry recovery
The livestock industry achieves remarkable recovery in 2024, with beef exports climbing 16% and sheep exports surging 70% following enhanced biosecurity measures and stronger international trade partnerships.
From plate to palette: the tasty trends transforming nutrition today
From kid-friendly meals that prioritise wholesome ingredients to the rise of upcycled products, discover the powerful trends shaping what we eat today and tomorrow.
Youth entrepreneurship and food waste solutions for South Africa’s future
Students turns surplus ingredients into market-ready products
Sweet treats, bitter prices: Why chocolate is getting more expensive
Chocolate lovers may soon face higher prices as cocoa costs soar due to climate change and economic shifts.
Are edible insects the future of protein? Scientists investigate alternative sources
As the world grapples with climate change and food shortages, a surprising solution has emerged.
Filling up an average food basket cost R5 433,70 in January
In December last year, the food basket cost R5 383,38 and a year ago in January 2024, it cost R5 324,86 in January 2024.
AVI reports steady revenue growth amid challenging market conditions
The latest trading report from AVI Limited reveals a complex market landscape with moderated growth across multiple sectors, as the company adapts its strategy to offset rising input costs and navigate fluctuating consumer demand.
Consumers wait with hope for interest rate cut later this week
SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago will on Thursday announce the central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee’s decision on interest rates in the country.
Latest inflation data spells more trouble for consumers
International agricultural food prices lifted by a hefty 6. 4% month-on-month in December, with domestic food prices influenced by these global prices on import/export parity pricing.
Groceries to get a little expensive as food prices continue upward trend
This comes as international agricultural food prices lifted by a hefty 6. 4% month-on-month in December, with domestic food prices influenced by these global prices on import/export parity pricing.
Slowing gains in the cost-of-living point to a rate cut next week
On Tuesday, Investec chief economist Annabel Bishop said that inflation for December was anticipated to come in at close to 3% year-on-year.