Report: South Africa 2016 unpacks SA's 21-year journey

'The Report: South Africa 2016' looks at what the regional giant can do to resolve its power supply problems and address the shortages that are impacting performance across the economic sectors.

There is wide-ranging coverage of South Africa's mining sector, which, along with the country's manufacturing industry, is bearing the brunt of disruptions to electricity supplies, at a time when low commodity prices are already weighing on performance. The publication also explores the part that South Africa's status as the continent's most connected country, in terms of capital and trade flows, is playing in helping it weather current external storms.

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It contains an in-depth interview with President Jacob Zuma, together with a detailed, sector-by-sector guide for investors. It also features a wide range of contributions from other leading representatives, including, the Minister of Finance Nhlanhla Nene, the Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies, the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank Lesetja Kganyago and the Chairman of Business Leadership South Africa Bobby Godsell. In addition, international personalities, including the Russian Federation Minister of Economic Development Alexey Ulyukaev, give their views on South Africa's economic development.

Andrew Jeffreys, editor-in-chief and CEO, said investors would be looking for a clear vision of how South Africa planned to move towards its target of inclusive economic development in difficult conditions.

"South Africa currently faces many of the same global challenges as other developing markets, including lower commodity prices and the risk of rising interest rates," he commented. "However, its status as a regional leader, strong trade links and resilient economy has helped the country retain its status as a preferred investment destination. Addressing issues such as power shortages and issues in the labour market through structural reforms will further improve investor sentiment, while also providing the local business community with a welcome boost."

Robert Tashima, Managing Editor for Africa, added that while investors would be keen to see more progress made under the National Development Plan, South Africa remained one of the continent's top destinations for FDI.

"South Africa has had to grapple with a number of challenges in recent years but in spite of that, it still retains some unparalleled competitive advantages, including one of the world's most sophisticated financial sectors and a diverse range of global heavyweight companies, from telecoms to energy to industry. Riding out the uncertain global economy will not be easy and domestic reforms are needed but with programmes such as the strategic infrastructure rollout and renewable energy initiatives, it is laying the groundwork for an uptick in growth."

The report marks the culmination of more than six months of field research by a team of analysts from Oxford Business Group. It assesses trends and developments across the economy, including macroeconomics, infrastructure, banking and other sectoral developments. It has been produced with the dti and contributions have also been made by ABSA Capital, SizweNtsalubaGobodo and DLA Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr. The publication is available in print or online. For more information, go to www.oxfordbusinessgroup.com.