South Africa's central bank cut its main lending rate by another 25 basis points to 7.50% as expected on Thursday, saying that while inflation appeared well-contained the medium-term outlook was more uncertain than usual.

Inflation came in lower than expected for December, with another interest rate cut next week now seen as likely.

The South African Reserve Bank has announced a 25 basis point cut in the interest rate, marking the third consecutive reduction as the country navigates economic challenges.

South Africa's central bank trimmed its main lending rate as expected on Thursday, its third cut in a row, but it placed emphasis on the uncertain global backdrop and said it had modelled the potential impact of a trade war.

The South African Reserve Bank has cut rates by 25 basis points in line with expectations, but there are fears over a potential global trade war.

South Africa’s central bank lowered borrowing costs for a third straight meeting, while warning that risks to the inflation outlook have increased.

South African businesses and households were hit by scheduled power cuts for the first time in 10 months on Friday due to breakdowns at state power utility Eskom's coal-fired power stations.