Salaries rise in January ahead of National Budget relief expectations

With the 2026 National Budget looming, South African salary earners are hoping that modest wage growth will finally translate into real financial relief rather than being absorbed by inflation and tax pressures. While recent data shows nominal salary increases, real wages remain under pressure, reflecting the broader tension between economic recovery and household affordability. In light of this, Elize Kruger, an independent economist explains South Africa's wage, a productivity and economic growth problem.