Construction activity at almost 7-year high, and could pick up in 2024: Afrimat index

Activity in SA's construction industry picked up significantly in the third quarter of 2023, boosted by improved public sector spending, residential refurbishment, and a continued drive for renewable energy, according to the latest Afrimat Construction Index.

The index, compiled by economist Roelof Botha and released on Thursday, rose 9.2% in the three months to end-September compared to the second quarter, lifted by a jump in wholesale construction as well as employment.

The figures are in stark contrast to StatsSA data on Tuesday, which showed that construction activity fell 2.8% in the third quarter relative to the second.