South Africa Debt Service
Total debt service as % of exports DT.TDS.DECT.EX.ZS
South Africa's debt service was 12.24% in 2025, ranked 56th globally. This represents a 24.9% decrease from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1994–2025.
Overview
South Africa's debt service stood at 12.24% in 2025, a decline of +4.06% from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach 12.24% by 2025. South Africa ranked 56th globally.
South Africa's debt service ratio has fluctuated significantly over the past three decades, with a notable peak in 2020 at 27.27% of the country's Gross National Income, and a trough in 2007 at 4.56%. The ratio has since declined, reaching 12.24% in 2025, ranking 56th globally. This decrease is likely influenced by the country's efforts to stabilize its economy following the 2020 peak. A comparison with peer countries reveals that South Africa's debt service ratio is comparable to that of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which ranked 59th with a ratio of 12.17% in 2025. In contrast, countries such as Tanzania, which ranked 55th, have slightly higher ratios. South Africa's debt service ratio remains a concern, and a sustained economic downturn or a sharp increase in interest rates could exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to a renewed spike in debt service costs.
Data & projection
| Year | Debt Service | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027* trend | 7.41% | - | - |
| 2026* trend | 9.82% | - | - |
| 2025* trend | 12.24% | - | - |
| 2025 | 12.24% | −4.06% | #56 |
| 2024 | 16.30% | −0.20% | #66 |
| 2023 | 16.50% | −2.12% | #76 |
| 2022 | 18.62% | −0.10% | #87 |
| 2021 | 18.72% | −8.54% | #80 |
| 2020 | 27.27% | +8.53% | #89 |
| 2019 | 18.73% | −5.60% | #82 |
| 2018 | 24.33% | +10.85% | #95 |
| 2017 | 13.48% | −1.32% | #69 |
| 2016 | 14.79% | −11.20% | #70 |
| 2015 | 25.99% | +17.42% | #98 |
| 2014 | 8.57% | −2.65% | #56 |
| 2013 | 11.21% | +2.61% | #71 |
| 2012 | 8.60% | +3.52% | #62 |
| 2011 | 5.07% | −0.84% | #46 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
South Africa matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 1994. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw debt service improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
South Africa's debt service was 12.24% in 2025. Ranked 56th globally. This represents a 24.9% decrease from the previous year.
South Africa's debt service peaked at 27.27% in 2020.
The lowest debt service in South Africa was 4.56% in 2007.
South Africa ranks 56th globally in debt service as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is DT.TDS.DECT.EX.ZS. Data sourced from World Bank.
South Africa's debt service is projected to reach 12.24% by 2025 based on trend extrapolation.
The debt service of South Africa in 2025 was 12.24%. This ranks 56th in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_south-africa_debt-service,
title = {South Africa Debt Service},
url = {https://historysaid.com/south-africa/debt-service/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}