Government must exercise "immediate, bold and decisive" leadership in reducing crime levels for South Africa to be able to foster a stimulative business environment, South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) CEO Neren Rau said this week.

The chamber noted with concern that businesses have seemingly become a "favoured target" for criminals.

This was reflected in the latest crime statistics, released by Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa on Tuesday, which showed a 41% increase in business related robberies, a 15% increase in truck hijacking, a 19% increase in commercial crime and a 21% increase in shoplifting between April 2008 and March this year.

"At a time when businesses are grappling with socioeconomic pressures, crime once again dominates the agenda of high risks. A stimulative business environment is one that encourages existing businesses to expand and prospective new entrants to seize business opportunities, both of which are essential for propelling our economy on the path to economic recovery," commented Rau.

Business would, meanwhile, continue to play a constructive role in combating crime, which would include working with the police and other crime prevention agencies, as well as providing resources to assist in the struggle, said Rau.