Transformation in the external trade of South Africa 1925–2000

Abstract

The most striking feature of South Africa's external trade in the last three quarters of the twentieth century is its rapid growth in current prices. In 1925 total trade amounted to $157, 1 million (R314, 1 million). By 1999 this has increased to R310 042, 7 million. Much of this growth was the result of price changes. Between 1925 and 1999 consumer prices rose approximately 70-fold.