Being a Regional MEA Employer: South Africa

Our Being a Regional MEA Employer series addresses the employment framework, legislative changes and challenges impacting employers and employees across a variety of jurisdictions. Our fourth episode focuses on South Africa, the southernmost country on the African continent.

Following COVID-19, South Africa has experienced slow economic growth and high unemployment rates. In December 2022, the ruling party had its Policy Conference which looked at economic transformation, land and energy reform, and climate change. There is serious need for power and energy; the renewable sector will support the growth of the economy as households and businesses invest enabling them to operate outside of the national grid. Investment in the logistics sector will increase as more goods are moved by road. Tourism continues to thrive due to the beauty of the country and affordability for visitors. 

In this episode, Senior Associate Amy Guest invites Partner, Mphengoa Phooko to discuss the dynamic employment space in South Africa and seek to answer the following questions:

1. From an employer’s perspective what are the key things an employer needs to know?
2. What are the opportunities for businesses? Where do you see a lot of activity taking place?
3. Is the employment framework employer friendly or employee friendly?
4. What’s on the horizon in the coming months?

During this episode, employers and businesses will gain an understanding of the employment framework and a market update in South Africa. 

Our employment specialists assist employers with the full range of issues which arise in the workplace on a day-to-day basis. If you have any questions regarding the employment framework in South Africa, please contact Sara Khoja, Mphengoa Phooko or Elodie Chalhoub.

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