Economic growth will still stay strong ... but the manufacturing sector will not help.

Buoyant spending and borrowing have not yet been inflationary, and will not necessarily become inflationary, partly because of relatively low global inflation and strong price competition from imports.

This will put upward pressure on both month-on-month and year-on-year inflation this month.

The rand weakened during February, which is expected to have limited the Bank's accumulation of foreign exchange reserves during the month.

Exports also sustained growth in manufacturing. Government spending has accelerated and will continue to be the main driver for growth next year with mega projects.

Manufacturing will be under pressure because of currency strength. It will hold the sector back and (keep) growth from reaching its potential level.