South Africa loses 74,000 formal jobs in Q1 2025—Stats SA

Labour market challenges. Photo: Statistics South Africa

Statistics South Africa has revealed that the country lost 74,000 formal sector jobs in the first quarter of 2025. According to Eyewitness News, employment dropped from 10.65 million in December 2024 to 10.58 million by March—a decline of 0.7%.

Full-time positions fell by 55,000, while part-time roles declined by 19,000. The trade industry was hit hardest, accounting for approximately 70% of overall losses—around 52,000 jobs—while community services and mining also suffered significant setbacks.

The downturn has dealt a blow to South African workers’ wallets as well: total gross earnings fell by R47.3 billion, a 4.6% drop from R1.03 trillion in December to R983.1 billion in March.

Stats SA Director Matlapane Masupye warned that the weak economic growth is to blame, adding that this could continue weighing on employment levels. Analysts say the government and private sector need to prioritize economic revival and job creation to reverse this concerning trend.