South Africa ranks 85th in Chandler Good Government Index

South Africa has been ranked 85th out of 133 countries in the 2026 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI). The nation demonstrated relative strengths in the Robust Laws & Policies pillar, where it ranked 44th, and the Attractive Marketplace pillar, which placed it 48th. Despite these specific strengths, South Africa’s overall score saw a slight decline compared to the previous period.

In a separate assessment, the 2026 Economic Freedom of the World index, produced by the Free Market Foundation and the Fraser Institute, placed South Africa 87th out of 165 jurisdictions. The report noted a decline from its 83rd position the previous year, highlighting challenges such as high government spending, rigid labor regulations, and pressures on property rights and contract enforcement.