Document: RIAS and Private Sector Development - Some thoughts from the South African Context

Is the level and cost of regulation in South Africa appropriate, particularly for SMEs? Is over-regulation clogging up the statute books? Is there room to ‘lighten up’ on the regulatory load while not undermining health and safety standards and workers’ rights? Can business burdens be measured in a meaningful sense?

South Africa does not yet have strong research-based evidence with which to advocate for a better environment conducive to business growth, investment and job creation. This paper captures current gripes relating to the regulatory environment in SA, within the confines of a desktop survey. It does so within the context of regulatory best practice and from a small business perspective.