Business Talk – Econometrix’s Azar Jammine on how to solve the R68 billion illicit trade problem in South Africa

 ·10 Nov 2026

In this Business Talk with Michael Avery interview, Azar Jammine discusses illicit trade in South Africa and its impact on the local economy.

Jammine is the Director and Chief Economist of Econometrix and has worked at the company for over 40 years.

He has held his current position at the company since joining in 1985 and has established himself as one of South Africa’s top analysts and commentators on domestic and international economic affairs.

Jammine has delivered over 5,000 presentations to various organisations and conferences, and has been extensively quoted in the media for his valuable insights.

He was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by The South African Professional Services Awards Association and previously served as a member of the National Advisory Council on Innovation.

Jammine holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mathematical Statistics and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Economics from the University of the Witwatersrand.

Additionally, he has a Master of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics and a PhD from the London Business School.

The interview

In this Business Talk interview, Jammine discusses what the R68 billion illicit trade is in South Africa and how it has impacted the country.

Jammine notes where recovered revenue from the illicit trade could be reinvested and how much could realistically be recovered.

He also outlines how regulatory and other enforcement structures in the economy can be strengthened to begin curbing the problem.

Jammine concludes the interview by sharing his thoughts on what the South African economy and economic growth would look like if the illicit trade wasn’t as prevalent.

Watch the interview with Azar Jammine below.

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