The South African Reserve Bank published updated gross external debt statistics for South Africa, showing the end-period stock increased to USD 193,047 million at 30 September 2025 from USD 180,237 million at 30 June 2025. General government remained the largest component at USD 93,981 million, entirely long-term and largely in debt securities (USD 83,638 million) with loans of USD 10,343 million. External debt of deposit-taking corporations excluding the central bank reached USD 38,832 million, mostly short-term (USD 34,756 million) and driven by currency and deposits (USD 18,577 million) and loans (USD 15,826 million). Direct investment liabilities stood at USD 24,093 million, while public corporations and other sectors recorded USD 17,726 million and USD 17,674 million respectively; the central bank’s external debt was USD 741 million and classified as short-term currency and deposits.
South African Reserve Bank 2025-12-31
South African Reserve Bank reports gross external debt rose to USD 193,047 million at end-September 2025
The South African Reserve Bank released updated gross external debt statistics, indicating an increase to USD 193,047 million as of 30 September 2025 from USD 180,237 million at 30 June 2025. The general government remains the largest component at USD 93,981 million, primarily in long-term debt securities. Deposit-taking corporations excluding the central bank reported USD 38,832 million, predominantly short-term debt.