THE recent report indicates that, after deteriorating for four consecutive quarters, the Durban Business Confidence Index (DBCI) improved markedly in 2025Q4. The index rose from 52.12 points in 2025Q3 to 63.38 points in 2025Q4, signalling that businesspersons are optimistic about the prevailing and future economic climate in Durban. This implies that six out of 10 surveyed business executives are satisfied with the existing conditions.

Dr. Ntokozo Nzimande, Research Associate in the Macroeconomics Research Unit at UKZN, gave insight into the dissatisfaction about environmental management. “The proportion of respondents who reported that if they (or anyone) complained about poor service delivery, it is unlikely that the local municipality would deal with it within a reasonable time frame,” said Nzimande.

He indicated that electricity remained the least of service delivery problems in Durban since the suspension of load-shedding in March 2024.

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The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC welcomed the release of the report, and commended the municipality for its efforts in creating a safe, vibrant, and inclusive festive season.

“As an organised business, we believe the findings provide a true reflection of the mood of the business community in Durban. This shift reflects the growing confidence in Durban’s economy; however, the need to sustain this confidence remains significant,” said Palesa Phili, CEO of the The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC.

She added, “Whilst we acknowledge this progress, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC believes that structural issues such as infrastructure, security, and basic service delivery must be addressed to further strengthen business confidence. It is evident that when service delivery improves, confidence improves.”

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eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba also hailed the release of the DBCI report. “I am encouraged by the findings, noting that the results underscore the City’s continued efforts to foster an investor-friendly environment. The city is rising. Importantly, businesspeople have commended the improvements in service delivery. We remain committed to keeping our foot firmly on the pedal,” said Xaba.

Xaba attributed the overall improvement in confidence to the growing stability within the City’s political and administrative environments.

Several sectors reported increased business confidence, including manufacturing, financial services, transport, electricity and gas, wholesale and retail trade, and community services.
The report is a collaborative project with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry and eThekwini Municipality.

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