The South African rand rose in early trade as traders awaited inflation and retail sales data. The rand traded at 16.6250 against the dollar, up about 0.3% from its previous close. Traders are waiting for February consumer inflation (ZACPI=ECI) data and January retail sales figures. Economists predict annual inflation will be at 3.1% for February, down from 3.5% in January, due to a sharp drop in fuel prices. Nedbank predicts retail sales growth of around 2.4% year-on-year in January. South Africa's benchmark 2035 government bond was firmer in early deals, with the yield dropping 8.5 basis to 8.71%.