NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE
GRADE 11
ECONOMICS
CASE STUDY
2025
MARKS: 50
TIME: 2 HOURS
This question paper consists of 4 pages
Economics Case Study Grade 11 2 Gert Sibande District/2025
INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION
1. This task should be carried in class and under controlled conditions
2. Answer all the questions
3. Number the answers correctly according to the numbering system used in this
question paper
4. Use only a black or blue ink
5. Follow the instructions in each question
6. Write legible and present your work neatly
Economics Case Study Grade 11 3 Gert Sibande District/2025
QUESTION 1: ECONOMIC GROWTH
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow:
South Africa’s role as a key player in Africa’s economy
South Africa stands at a crucial crossroads in its economic journey. As the largest economy
on the African continent, it plays a pivotal role in driving growth and stability across the
region. Despite the challenges posed by shifting global trade dynamics, particularly the
recent imposition of tariffs by the United States, South Africa continues to demonstrate
remarkable resilience. The country’s proactive approach to diversifying its markets and
expanding its trade relationships positions it to not only overcome these challenges but also
unlock new opportunities for growth and investment
With a GDP of over USD 410 billion, South Africa remains the economic powerhouse of
Africa. The country contributes nearly a quarter of Africa’s total GDP, underscoring its crucial
role in driving economic growth on the continent. Its diverse economy, which spans key
sectors such as mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and services, allows South Africa to
serve as a hub for trade and investment within the Southern African Development
Community (SADC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).
South Africa’s economic success is intricately linked to the prosperity of its neighbouring
countries. A slowdown in South Africa’s growth would undoubtedly have a ripple effect,
undermining the economic stability of the region. For this reason, South Africa has a unique
responsibility to lead efforts aimed at driving sustainable growth, not only for itself but for the
entire
Source: Brand South Africa, 7 August 2025
1.1 Mention the role of South Africa in SADC and SACU (1)
1.2. Which tariffs were imposed by USA recently. (1)
1.3. Name TWO ways that show SA is overcoming challenges. (2)
1.4. Briefly describe the term Gini coefficient. (2)
1.5. Differentiate between physical wealth and financial wealth. (4)
1.6. Discuss ways the South African government addresses economic
growth constraints. (8)
1.7. Evaluate the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (BBBEE)
as one of South Africa’s effort to redress economic inequality (8)
[26]
Economics Case Study Grade 11 4 Gert Sibande District/2025
QUESTION 2: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow:
Infrastructure is the key to a growing South African economy
The Government of National Unity is committing itself to a “pro-growth economy.”
This in line with their budgetary statement aims to tackle the two pressing
economic issues that South Africa faces, low economic growth and high public
debt, and infrastructure plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economic future.
A bounce back in the manufacturing and mining sectors likely provided a fillip to the
economy. The mining sector likely benefitted from demand-based price surges,
Frank Blackmore, lead economist at KPMG in South Africa, said.US President
Donald Trump on 7 August imposed varying tariffs on exports from trading partners,
disrupting supply chains and threatening global economic growth. The tariffs mean
growth may not be sustained through the second half of the year and bodes badly for
jobs,
Infrastructure plays a crucial role in maintaining public services and economic growth,
where the IMF predicts that a 1% increase in infrastructure investment leads to 0.4%-
3% economic growth.
In local context Minister Godongwana outlines the following:
Government is pursuing policies to achieve rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic
growth. Stronger infrastructure investment will underpin the growth agenda
Source: BusinessTech August 2025
2.1. Mention any TWO sectors are likely to improve from the extract. (2)
2.2. What is the main aim of the GEAR? (2)
2.3. Which TWO characteristics of developing countries from the extract (2)
2.4. Briefly describe the term Indigenous Knowledge Systems. (2)
2.5. How can the government promote skills development in South Africa? (2)
2.6. Discuss ‘deficient infrastructure’ as one of the characteristics of developing
countries. (8)
2.6. Why is high population growth a challenge in the economy (8)
[24]
GRAND TOTAL: 50
