Policy

Public opposition shaped Post Office small-parcel decision, Malatsi says

The minister says most submissions opposed keeping the state postal operator’s sub-1kg exclusivity, but rescue practitioners warn its loss would weaken projected revenue.

Newsly Staff · 3 months ago · 3 min read

Sassa targets 350 000 grant reviews as digital verification expands

The agency estimates the 2026/27 review drive could save R1.5 billion, but past portal downtime and parliamentary warnings show that digital exclusion remains an implementation risk.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 3 min read

Home Affairs expands online fast-track for skilled work visas

Infrastructure developers, multinational headquarters and some financial firms can apply by 4 September for trusted status that reduces paperwork and prioritises work-visa processing, but applicants must clear an 80-point screening threshold.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 4 min read

EU launches product-passport registry before 2027 battery deadline

The system will index compliance records for covered goods sold in Europe, with battery passports becoming mandatory in February 2027 — a near-term data challenge for South African automotive supply chains.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 4 min read

EU clarifies when AI transparency duties reach South African providers

New guidance says businesses outside the bloc can fall within the AI Act when their systems or intended outputs are used in the EU, with most Article 50 duties starting on 2 August.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 4 min read

Absa opens 12 Smart ID renewal sites with app bookings

The bank now offers walk-in and digital bookings for renewals at selected branches, but users need an Absa cheque or savings account and first-time IDs and passports remain outside this phase.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 3 min read

South Africa becomes founding member of Shanghai-based AI body

The new organisation plans to coordinate AI standards, skills and research, but its founding agreement still requires ratification and leaves funding and programmes to future decisions.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 3 min read

Mauritius becomes seventh African signatory to Artemis Accords

The non-binding framework gives the island state a place in international space-governance discussions and may support new partnerships, but it does not guarantee funding or missions.

Newsly Staff · 4 months ago · 3 min read