Naspers and MISTRA Reveal Potential of South Africa’s Digital Platform Economy

Naspers, in partnership with the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA), has released a groundbreaking report on South Africa’s digital platform economy. This sector, which includes online platforms facilitating economic transactions, is projected to inject R91.4 billion into the economy by 2035, significantly increasing its GDP contribution from 0.02% in 2022 to 1.38%.

The report, the first of its kind, underscores the need for business and government collaboration to overcome growth barriers and create an enabling environment for digital platforms. It highlights that South Africa’s digital transformation is currently lagging, despite a growing demand for digital skills. Infrastructure and evolving regulations are also crucial for unlocking the sector’s potential.

Naspers and its South African entities, such as Takealot.com and PayU, have already contributed over R13 billion to the economy, including R1.5 billion in household income, and have reduced trade costs and living expenses. The report, titled “Our Digital Horizon: The Economic Opportunity of Digital Platform Businesses in SA,” aims to redefine economic value measurement and stimulate discussions to drive South Africa’s digital transformation.