The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has made a compelling call for an emergency presidential economic summit amid rising unemployment rates that have escalated to a staggering 33.2% in the second quarter of 2025. This proposal comes as the nation grapples with increasing economic challenges, compounded by a looming 30% tariff hike from the United States that could further exacerbate the situation.
According to SAFTU spokesperson Newton Masuku, the summit should bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including workers’ unions, progressive economists, and representatives from affected sectors. “We need a united front to formulate a response that is not only effective but also grounded in the realities faced by South African workers,” Masuku emphasised during a recent press briefing. He believes such collaboration is crucial to devising strategies that can address the country’s escalating unemployment crisis.
The latest unemployment figures highlight an unsettling trend, with the rate increasing from 32.9% in the first quarter of the year to 33.2% in the second. This rise signifies not only a growing number of jobless individuals but also a broader implication on social and economic stability across the nation. As many South Africans struggle to find work, the urgency for a comprehensive strategy has never been more pressing.
Masuku pointed out specific challenges posed by the new tariff increase introduced by US President Joe Biden, stating, “We call for an Emergency Presidential Economic summit, which will pave the way for a united sovereignty response. The increased tariffs will heighten our economic distress, particularly for industries reliant on exports.” He has also called for a diversifying of trade partnerships, spotlighting the African Continental Free Trade Area, BRICS nations, and economies in the Global South as vital alternatives to reduce South Africa’s dependency on international markets.