The biggest concern currently facing the private sector is the escalating cost of doing business, according to the 2013 Annual Survey of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI).The survey also shows a muted outlook for 2014, but with better expectations than the past year.

The survey polled 64 business which employ at least 24 000 employees in total.
The escalating cost of doing business (including electricity costs and municipal levies) is currently the biggest concern of business (42%) followed by the related concept of regulatory compliance cost (i.e. time and resources associated with complying with regulations) at 16%. The third biggest concern is the cost or access to finance (13%), followed by inadequate or failing infrastructure (8%), uncertainty over changes to law and crime both at (6%). Labour strife and public service delivery are at the bottom of business concerns with 4% each.
 

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