Stats SA data released on Tuesday showed South Africa's unemployment rate increased to 32.7 percent in the first quarter of 2026, up 1.3 percentage points from the previous quarter.
The figures mark the latest in a series of high readings that have persisted above 30 percent for much of the decade. Youth unemployment reached 60.9 percent, while the expanded definition of joblessness rose to 43.7 percent.
George Glynos, head of research at ETM Analytics, described the increase as symptomatic of an economy that has lost its dynamism. He called for greater investment in infrastructure and reforms to reduce government overreach in business.
Youth Capital advocacy strategist Mbali Williams said entry-level job requirements have grown significantly more difficult. She noted that only four in 10 working-age people participate in the labour market.
Economist Lara Hodes of Investec linked the data to uncertainty from the Middle East conflict, which has raised transport costs and prompted businesses to defer hiring.
