Business
Liqui Fruit Faces Setback as Mashatile Pushes for Stricter BEE
Rand steadies after global shifts
The South African rand gained ground this week after fresh economic signals from the United States. Stronger-than-expected inflation data, coupled with rising unemployment claims, have raised hopes that the Federal Reserve could cut interest rates soon. On Friday morning, the rand was trading at R17.37 to the dollar, R23.55 to the pound, and R20.38 to the euro. Oil prices were slightly lower at 65.90 dollars a barrel.
Blow for an iconic local brand
In a decision that rattled one of South Africa’s most recognisable names, the Advertising Regulatory Board’s appeals committee has ruled against Liqui Fruit. The board deemed the brand’s “Nothing But Fruit” slogan misleading, ordering owner Pioneer Foods to change or drop the trademark altogether. Earlier this year, the company was also told to retract claims about sourcing locally. For a brand deeply woven into the country’s beverage culture, the ruling marks a major reputational blow.
Mashatile doubles down on BEE
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has spoken out firmly on broad-based Black economic empowerment. He dismissed calls to scrap BEE, saying that abandoning it would be tantamount to returning to apartheid. In his view, the policy is not failing but rather in need of stricter application. Mashatile’s remarks are a reminder that transformation remains at the centre of the government’s economic agenda.
Economic challenges linger
FirstRand CEO Mary Vilakazi added her voice to the ongoing debate about growth, warning that South Africa’s economic recovery will not be quick. She acknowledged that progress is being made but argued that structural reforms will take time, with meaningful growth only likely in the next two years.
Everyday changes ahead
Motorists can expect a shift in the way they pay tolls. By the end of 2025, most toll plazas will offer tap-and-go facilities, allowing drivers to use debit cards or smart devices instead of cash. This modernisation is part of a broader move towards convenience and digital payments on South African roads.
Trouble in Gauteng’s health department
The Auditor General of South Africa has flagged the Gauteng Department of Health as the only provincial department showing non-compliance in every area checked. The damning assessment points to a lack of effective internal controls and raises further concerns about one of the country’s most critical public service departments.
Also read: South African Consumers Are Spending More, But Can the Economy Keep Up?
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: Business Tech
Featured Image: Cape Town ETC
