Pretoria: The government has welcomed the latest Quarterly Employment Statistics (QES) for the fourth quarter of 2025, which reflect a modest increase in total employment and continued growth in gross earnings across the economy.

According to South African Government News Agency, Acting Government Spokesperson Michael Currin stated that the latest QES results reinforce the view that South Africa’s economy has proven itself to be remarkably resilient, despite persistent domestic and global challenges. He highlighted that the quarter-on-quarter rise of 18,000 jobs, driven by gains in key sectors such as trade and business services, alongside a notable increase in wages and bonuses, signals ongoing recovery in economic activity.

Currin further explained that the increase in total employment during the quarter, driven mainly by gains in trade and business services, reflects renewed activity in important areas of the economy. Growth in both full-time and part-time employment further signals improving labour market conditions and sustained demand for labour, particularly in service-oriented industries.

Government also noted the continued growth in gross earnings, basic salaries, and bonuses paid to employees, emphasizing that these increases provide a welcome support to household incomes and contribute positively to overall economic momentum. Currin reiterated the government’s commitment to targeted support measures, structural reforms, and investment initiatives aimed at revitalising affected industries and promoting inclusive growth.

He mentioned that these developments coincide with South Africa hosting the sixth South Africa Investment Conference, providing a platform to showcase the country’s economic resilience and improving labour market conditions to global investors. Currin asserted that the positive trajectory reflected in the QES strengthens investor confidence and reinforces South Africa’s position as a competitive and attractive investment destination.

Released on Tuesday by Statistics South Africa, the QES recorded an increase in employment in the fourth quarter of 2025, with total jobs rising by 18,000 or 0.2% to 10.55 million in December, from 10.53 million in September.

The quarterly gain was driven primarily by growth in the trade sector, which added 37,000 jobs, and business services, which increased by 17,000. The government, in collaboration with social partners, has also committed to continue building on these positive trends by advancing policies that support job creation, economic recovery, and sustainable growth.