The new South African Revenue Service Commissioner, Doctor Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu, plans to build on the successes of his predecessor, Edward Kieswetter, while addressing challenges related to the illicit economy.
Kieswetter stepped down as Commissioner on April 30, 2026, after seven years in the role. Under his leadership, SARS collected R11.8-trillion and saw public trust rise from 48% to 75%. He emphasized rebuilding trust within SARS as a key achievement.
SARS aims to expand its tax base and focus more on combating the illicit economy under Makhubu’s leadership. The organization is shifting towards a digital-first approach to tax administration, phasing out manual submission options. This transition aims to improve tax compliance among citizens.
Makhubu stated his intention to enhance ethical conduct within SARS. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that all personnel act beyond reproach in their duties. This focus on integrity is crucial for maintaining public trust.
The 2026 tax filing deadline for non-provisional taxpayers is set for October 23, 2026, while provisional taxpayers and trusts must submit their returns by January 22, 2027. Taxpayers should be aware that SARS may impose automatic penalties ranging from R250 to R16,000 for late submissions.
SARS collected over R304 billion in compliance revenue during the 2024/25 financial year. This figure underscores the organization’s ongoing efforts to improve tax collection and compliance rates.
Makhubu’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for SARS as it faces ongoing challenges in addressing the illicit economy. The organization’s future strategies will likely focus on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and taxpayer engagement.
