The South African rand was steady in early trade on Tuesday before the release of domestic mining output and unemployment figures. At 0618 GMT, the rand traded at 17.74 against the dollar, about 0.2% firmer than Monday's close.

The South African rand strengthened against the dollar on Friday, erasing earlier losses after a key report showed the US labor market cooled sharply over the past three months.

The USD/ZAR exchange rate dropped to a low of 17.72, its lowest level since July 25, and 3.3% below this month’s high.

The South African rand gained in early trade on Monday ahead of the release of domestic manufacturing data, while investors also kept a close eye on trade updates as the country scrambles to secure a lower tariff rate on its exports to the United States.