South Africa

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has published an updated list of prohibited and restricted imports and exports, effective 31 July 2026. The revision introduces new tariff heading 3402.90, which will now be subject to detention by the Protective Harvest Office (PHO). Additionally, tariff heading 0406.10 has been modified to reflect current trade restrictions. The […]

SARS Legal Counsel has released a notice regarding the preparation of legislation, specifically the drafting of public comment documents for the 2026 legislative cycle. The announcement outlines the process for submitting draft bills and accompanying explanatory memoranda for public scrutiny, with a focus on transparency and stakeholder engagement. Key legislation includes the Taxation Laws Amendment

The SARS Legal Counsel released a detailed notice on dispute resolution and judgments relating to tax matters, specifically referencing the Tax Court matters for the 2028‑2026 period. The publication outlines recent rulings, including SARSTC VAT 22498 (VAT) [2026] ZATC CPT (27 July 2026), which interpret Section 17(1) of the Value‑Added Tax Act, 1991. These judgments

SARS announced that selected service centres will open on Saturdays to assist taxpayers with filing their Income Tax returns ahead of the filing season. This initiative, effective 29 July 2026, is designed to provide greater flexibility for individuals who may be unable to visit during regular weekday hours. The extended hours will be available at

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced updates concerning customs registration, licensing, and accreditation processes, effective 29 July 2026. A key change involves the revision of facility codes used in Box 30 on the Goods Declaration form, now including additional details to capture information about container depots. This enhancement aims to improve traceability, streamline customs

In a coordinated operation, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) – specifically the DPCI Serious Commercial Crime Investigations unit – seized a substantial quantity of alcohol that was diverted to Kempton Park. The operation, executed on 29 July 2026, targeted illicit distribution channels that circumvented tax obligations

On 28 July 2026, SARS released updated documentation for the Advance Import Payment (AIP) process, aligning it with the amended Rule 120.13.02. The revisions introduce an increase in the allowable payment thresholds and adjust procedural requirements to reflect current market conditions. This update is intended to streamline customs clearance for importers, reduce administrative burdens, and

SARS issued a serious scam alert on 28 July 2026 regarding fraudulent messages circulating via SMS and email that claim recipients are owed a tax refund. These communications, often disguised as official SARS notifications, prompt users to click on malicious links or provide personal information, facilitating identity theft and financial loss. The scam exploits the

SARS, in partnership with the Office of the Tax Ombud, announced a Mall Activation event to be held at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Durban. The activation, scheduled for 27 July 2026, aims to engage directly with taxpayers, providing on‑site assistance, information on available services, and resources to help individuals navigate tax obligations. The collaboration

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced a major digital transformation initiative that will be rolled out on 9 July 2026. The upgrades focus on modernising the SARS digital platform to enhance user experience, increase system reliability, and introduce new functionalities that streamline tax compliance processes. Key improvements include a more intuitive user interface, faster