MAYOR XABA UPBEAT AS BUSINESS CONFIDENCE RISES IN DURBAN

By the eThekwini Municipality

eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba has welcomed the release of the Durban Business Confidence Index for the fourth quarter of 2025, published today.

The report shows a notable improvement in business sentiment, with the index rising from 52.12 points in the third quarter to 63.38 points in the fourth quarter of 2025.

According to the report, this upward shift reflects growing optimism among business leaders about Durban’s current economic environment and future prospects.

The index ranges from 0 to 100. A score below 50 indicates low confidence, a score of 50 reflects a neutral economic outlook, and a score above 50 signals positive confidence in the economy.

Mayor Xaba said he was encouraged by the findings, noting that the results underscore the City’s continued efforts to foster an investor friendly environment.

“eThekwini Municipality is rising. Importantly, businesspeople have commended the improvements in service delivery. We remain committed to keeping our foot firmly on the pedal,” said Mayor Xaba.

Positive sentiment regarding service delivery is supported by several key developments. For the first time in five years, all water storage facilities operated optimally, ensuring a stable water supply across many parts of the city during the festive season.

Additionally, for the first time since the 2022 floods, all bathing beaches were open for swimming during the festive period and majority of the City’s bathing beaches remain open. Durban also attracted nearly R50 billion in new investment last year, further demonstrating its upward trajectory.

Several sectors reported increased business confidence, including manufacturing, financial services, transport, electricity and gas, wholesale and retail trade, and community services.

Mayor Xaba attributed the overall improvement in confidence to the growing stability within the City’s political and administrative environments. He said this stability has enhanced performance and accountability among officials, enabling councillors to exercise effective oversight.

The Mayor thanked the business community for its continued confidence and investment in Durban. He emphasised that such investment is critical to reducing unemployment, poverty, and inequality. He reiterated the City’s commitment to working closely with all social partners to ensure Durban remains a preferred investment destination.