SARS invites public input on a new digital VAT model to modernise VAT administration
SARS aspires for a future in which tax just happens for most of taxpayers by leveraging data and technology. To this end, and pursuant to the VAT Modernisation Discussion Paper of 2023, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is pleased to release the VAT Modernisation Consultation Paper for public consultation and comment, calling on all impacted and interested stakeholders to contribute to a modern, transparent and efficient VAT administration system in South Africa.
SARS urges schools to apply for VAT deregistration
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) calls on schools registered under the South African Schools Act that are registered as VAT vendors to apply for cancellation of their VAT registration, following the legislative change in the VAT treatment of schools with effect from 1 January 2026.
Trade statistics for June 2026
South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance surplus of R17.8 billion in June 2026. This surplus was attributable to exports of R193.6 billion and imports of R175.8 billion, inclusive of trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia (BELN).
SARS seizes alcohol diverted to Kempton Park
The South African Revenue Service (SARS), working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) DPCI Serious Commercial Crime Investigations, has dealt a major blow to the illicit alcohol trade. SARS descended on a warehouse in Kempton Park, Gauteng, as part of its intensified crackdown on the illicit economy.
SARS welcomes sentencing in R62 million VAT Fraud Case
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) welcomes the sentencing of Mr André Claude Dickoumba-De-Diguela to 25 years direct imprisonment in a complex R62 million VAT fraud scheme. The sentencing marks a significant enforcement success and a clear warning that tax crimes will face prosecution.
SARS unveils smarter, simpler, more secure Filing Season experience for Taxpayers
South Africa’s 2026 Filing Season officially opens with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) rolling out a range of digital enhancements to the taxpayer experience, making tax compliance simpler, faster, and more secure for millions of taxpayers. As at the end of 1 July 2026, more than 1.9 million taxpayers were auto-assessed with about R8 billion refunds paid out in 72 hours.
Trade Statistics for May 2026
South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance deficit of R1.8 billion in May 2026. This deficit was attributable to exports of R178.8 billion and imports of R180.6 billion, inclusive of trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and Namibia (BELN).
SARS Commissioner welcomes Constitutional Court judgement on zero-rating of gold
The Commissioner for South African Revenue Service (SARS) Dr Johnstone Makhubu welcomes the unanimous judgment of the Constitutional Court in Lueven Metals (Pty) Ltd v Commissioner for the South African Revenue Service, which confirms SARS’ interpretation of section 11(1)(f) of the Value-Added Tax Act, 1991.
SARS marks International SMME day with nationwide support to small businesses
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) will mark International Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) Day with a focused national programme aimed at strengthening support to small businesses, recognising their role in economic growth and tax compliance.
SARS rolls out phased Filing Season, urges Taxpayers to wait their turn
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is making this year’s Filing Season easy and simple to navigate. With this statement, SARS offers clarity and certainty to taxpayers helping them understand how the process is structured, specifying turnaround times for refunds, verification, and submission.
