Established in 1944 and attached to the University of Stellenbosch, the BER generates, analyses and disseminates research on the South African macro-economy and selected economic sectors. The BER offers economic analysis and forecasting services which are used by a range of clients from small private companies and NGOS, to multilateral organisations and academic bodies.
The bureau’s projects include:
- economic outlook – a detailed forecast of the South African economy for the coming 5-6 years
- economic prospects – a quarterly report, containing a detailed forecast of the South African economy for the coming 18-24 months
- research on the impact of HIV/AIDS on selected business sectors in South Africa
The BER also presents courses in practical economics in conjunction with the university and holds regular conferences, details of which are available on the website. The website also contains information about the bureau’s databank, which has a comprehensive collection of national and international economic data, available in both numerical and graphic format.