MISA notes with grave concern that the unemployment crisis in the second quarter has hit new heights
11 August 2026
MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association expresses grave concern at the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) released by Statistics South Africa, which shows the official unemployment rate rising to 33,6% in the second quarter of 2026. The number of unemployed persons increased by 345 000 to 8,5 million, while employment fell by 16 000 to 16,7 million.
Earlier this year, MISA cautioned against celebrating temporary job gains that mask the deeper crisis. Our February statement warned that seasonal employment in agriculture and retail cannot substitute for permanent, stable jobs. The latest QLFS results confirm that South Africa remains trapped in a cycle of unstable employment, with youth unemployment climbing to 47,4%, leaving 5 million young people without work.
Sectoral and provincial trends highlight structural weaknesses. While Trade (+70 000) and Construction (+39 000) recorded gains, industries such as Community and Social Services (‑57 000), Mining (‑26 000), and Agriculture (‑15 000) shed jobs. Mpumalanga gained 41 000 jobs, but the Western Cape lost 48 000, underscoring uneven growth across provinces.
MISA believes that government, business, and labour must urgently collaborate to create permanent employment opportunities. Investment in skills development, targeted support for small businesses, and policies that stimulate industrial growth are essential. The decline in discouraged job‑seekers suggests that many South Africans remain hopeful and willing to work if opportunities are made available.
“The rising unemployment rate is not just a statistic; it represents families under pressure and communities losing hope. We must act with urgency and compassion to restore dignity through decent work. MISA calls on all stakeholders to put job creation at the centre of economic policy,” said Martlé Keyter, CEO of Operations at MISA.
MISA reiterates its commitment to advocating for workers in the motor industry and beyond. The union stands ready to work with government and industry on evidence‑based interventions that grow dealerships, strengthen workshops, and create the permanent jobs South Africa urgently needs.
Issued by Sonja Carstens, Manager of MISA’s Media & Communication Department, on behalf of the Union.
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