JOHANNESBURG, Nov 21 Reuters South Africa39;s rand slipped on Tuesday after mixed local economic data, ahead of inflation figures and an interest rate decision this week.

At 1541 GMT, the rand traded at 18.48 against the dollar , about 0.7 weaker than its previous close.

The dollar itself was last trading down around 0.14 against a basket of major currencies.

Central bank data earlier in the day showed South Africa39;s composite leading business cycle indicator rose 0.6 monthonmonth in September.

However, a survey by the Rand Merchant Bank showed business confidence slipped in the fourth quarter, mainly due to weak local demand for vehicles as consumer incomes remained under pressure in the face of high borrowing costs.

Investor focus will now shift towards local inflation data due on Wednesday and an interest rate decision by the South African Reserve Bank on Thursday.

Global markets are also awaiting minutes of the U.S. Federal Reserve39;s last meeting later in the day for cues on where interest rates are headed.

Shares on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange were little changed, with the bluechip Top40 index closing near its previous close.

South Africa39;s benchmark 2030 government bond was stronger, with the yield down 15 basis points to 9.905.

Reporting by Anait Miridzhanian and Bhargav Acharya; Editing by Rashmi Aich and Andrew Heavens

Source Reuters