Employers lock out workers as wage and working condition negotiations reach deadlock.
Americans will lose more than $46 billion in annual spending power, according to a national retail federation study.
DHL eCommerce conducted the survey across 24 countries, recording the views of about 12 000 people.
The EU remains the largest market for local exports – importing some 83 000 tonnes.
For the first 10 months of the year, vehicle exports were 23.1% below the corresponding period in 2023.
In 2023, the main imports were electrical and electronic equipment ($7.7bn), machinery ($4bn), vehicles ($1bn) and iron and steel ($623 million).
Local growers currently spend approximately R3.7 billion annually to comply with EU measures.
If it continues on its current trajectory, it may even reach a point where it could battle to meet demand.
“Current market conditions do not support the need for multiple transportation methods.” - United Manganese of Kalahari
Increased local production and exports to meet rising demand will generate additional tax revenue to support the fiscus, says Sapa.
It comes after the finalisation of a long-awaited phytosanitary agreement between South Africa and India.
