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South African manufacturing production experienced a notable downturn in February 2026, with output falling by 2.8% compared to the same period last year.
This decline follows a marginal, revised year-on-year dip of 0.1% recorded in January, according to the latest data released by Statistics South Africa on Thursday.
Every month, the sector’s performance also showed signs of cooling, with factory output decreasing by 2.2% in February.
This month-on-month contraction stands in contrast to the revised 1.9% growth seen in January, highlighting ongoing volatility within the nation’s industrial landscape as it navigates the current economic environment.
