Johannesburg, 29 January 2026 – The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) has responded to the South African Reserve Bank’s announcement to maintain current interest rates, acknowledging the central bank’s ongoing commitment to price stability and inflation management.
While this decision reflects sound macroeconomic prudence, it comes amid continued financial strain for South African households. Despite recent positive market indicators – including record highs in gold, platinum, and silver prices, a resilient Rand hovering around R15.90 to the US dollar, and strong global equity performance – many consumers continue to face the burden of elevated debt-servicing costs.
For middle-income households in particular, the absence of further rate relief means vehicle affordability remains constrained. Vehicles, essential to the daily mobility of many working South Africans, are increasingly subject to delayed purchasing decisions as higher interest costs impact monthly repayments. Although the local automotive market has benefited from a series of rate cuts over the past year, sustained higher borrowing costs continue to limit access to finance.
NADA emphasises that future interest rate relief will be critical to easing pressure on household budgets, improving vehicle affordability, and supporting a gradual recovery in consumer confidence. Such measures are expected to benefit both prospective buyers and the broader automotive sector, bolstering demand and encouraging continued market growth.
As a proud member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), NADA remains committed to advocating for policies that support accessible vehicle finance and a resilient, inclusive automotive industry.
