FRIDAY, 11.00AM
IN spite of a 19% increase in the manufacturing production index, the sector cut a further 14 000 jobs during the first quarter of this year, according to latest figures from the Central Statistical Service.
The manufacturing sector has been in a squeeze for some time, and nearly 50 000 workers lost their jobs last year. However, there is optimism for the future, and if external demand continues to be strong and the rand continues to depreciate in line with inflation differences with main trading partners, exports should do very well.