Garlicke & Bousfield Incorporated
3 Experts
1 Contributions by Garlicke & Bousfield Incorporated Experts
PRACTICE NOTES
Revised in December 2025
Introduction
As one of the continent’s biggest economies, South Africa offers a strong springboard for investment and commerce across Africa, especially in sub-Saharan markets. The country benefits from mature infrastructure and long-standing trading links with its neighbours. Businesses can adopt multiple structures when establishing operations in South Africa. This Practice Note outlines principal considerations for new entrants before commencing activities in the country. It is not a comprehensive manual, and tailored South African legal advice should always be obtained when forming and running a business locally.
South Africa has three spheres of government:
National
Provincial
Local
The National Assembly is the highest law-making authority, and its statutes apply nationwide. There are nine provinces, each with a legislature, a premier and an executive council. Although certain areas fall within the exclusive legislative remit of the National Assembly, provincial legislatures may craft their own laws and policies within the
Commercial
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