Cape Town — In a bold move aimed at tackling South Africa’s deepening unemployment crisis, Cabinet has approved the Employment Services Amendment Bill, introducing new restrictions on the employment and movement of foreign nationals in key economic sectors.
The announcement was made by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a Thursday briefing at Parliament. The bill is designed to prioritize South African workers in sectors that have become heavily reliant on foreign labour, including agriculture, hospitality, tourism, and construction.
📊 A Response to 32.9% Unemployment
The legislative push comes as unemployment sits at a staggering 32.9%, according to Statistics South Africa’s Q1 2025 report. With millions out of work, the government says the bill forms part of a broader strategy to create space for local job seekers, while ensuring fair regulation of foreign workers.
“This bill complements our broader efforts to expand access to employment for South Africans,” said Ntshavheni. “It introduces sector-based quotas, curbs exploitation by labour brokers, and supports skills mapping to better identify and fill critical shortages.”
📃 National Labour Migration Policy Approved
The bill accompanies the National Labour Migration Policy White Paper, which seeks to balance economic growth with local labour demands. Among its more controversial provisions, the policy will restrict foreign nationals from opening small businesses in specific sectors and tighten enforcement mechanisms for undocumented employment.
🗣️ Reactions and Controversy
The decision has reignited national debates around migration and job security, especially following recent remarks by billionaire Johann Rupert, who controversially linked foreign migration to economic instability and security risks.
While some critics have warned of xenophobic undertones and potential trade backlash, supporters argue the bill is a long-overdue measure to regain control over labour dynamics and protect local livelihoods.
Labour unions, meanwhile, have cautiously welcomed the announcement, calling for strict implementation and monitoring to prevent loopholes.
🛠️ What’s Next?
The bill will soon be tabled in Parliament, where it is expected to undergo intense scrutiny. If passed, it could redefine employment regulations, reshape labour migration patterns, and introduce new compliance obligations for businesses across multiple sectors.
