Trade conditions in South Africa have remained depressed, according to the latest survey by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci), though it added that conditions should improve next year.

Sacci’s Trade Activity Index for September slipped to 45, from a reading of 46 in August, though still above the 42 reading in June. Meanwhile the Trade Expectations Index, which measures trade conditions six months ahead, slowed to 54 in September, from 56 in August.

“Trade expectations tend to be on hold at marginally improved levels as financial conditions remain steady and cost pressures appear to be easing,” said Sacci.

Sacci added that the Trade Expectations Index implied a more optimistic outlook for trade prospects in 2009.