Trade statistics for November 2024

South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance surplus of R34.7 billion in November 2024 attributable to exports of R180.9 billion and imports of R146.2 billion.

SARS hosted a transformative 91st WCO Policy Commission meeting in Cape Town

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) proudly hosted the 91st World Customs Organization (WCO) Policy Commission Meeting in Cape Town. This meeting was a milestone for the global customs community. The highly anticipated gathering brought together customs leaders and experts from around the world to deal with the evolving challenges of international trade and to shape the future of customs practices.

South Africa elected as new Chair of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF)

South Africa, represented by Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, was elected unopposed as the new Chair of the ATAF Council for a two-year period during ATAF’s 8th General Assembly convened in Kigali, Rwanda on 4 December 2024. In support of SARS’ strategic objectives that emphasises the need and importance to work with and through key stakeholders to improve the tax eco-system – domestically, regionally and internationally.

Trade Statistics for October 2024

South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance surplus of R14.6 billion in October 2024. This surplus was attributable to exports of R179.6 billion and imports of R165.0 billion.

The latest Two-Pot withdrawals

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) seeks to update the total figures for tax directives received concerning withdrawals from the Savings Withdrawal Benefit under the two-pot system. Since its inception, SARS has observed an unprecedented and steady increase in tax directive applications, likely reflecting the economic challenges faced by households.

As of 18 November 2024, 2,153,942 directive applications were received and a total of 1,914, 306 directives issued with a total gross value of R49 577, 355, 406.14.