The South African rand edged down to around 17.5 per USD, as the dollar held firm and key precious metals, notably gold, palladium, and platinum, lost ground. Meanwhile, traders weighed recent domestic data and global developments on trade and politics. South Africa's mining output unexpectedly declined in August, marking the first contraction since April. On the trade front, South Africa’s trade minister Parks Tau said on Sunday that South Africa was on the verge of a new trade deal to reduce the 30% tariffs imposed in early August on its exports to the United States. Officials also stated that the AGOA agreement remains in effect despite its September 30 expiry, with US lawmakers planning a short-term extension while discussions continue on a revised trade framework for sub-Saharan markets.