South Africa's Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, has announced a 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) for the current financial year, with an additional 0.5% hike planned for 2026. This measure aims to address urgent revenue needs amidst ongoing political negotiations within the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered the 2025 National Budget Speech on Wednesday (12 March). The budget addressed several key points, including the country’s current economic status, growth projections, substantial debt servicing costs, proposed increases in VAT and sin taxes, and the continuation of the social relief grant.

South Africa’s 2025 budget is a cautious step toward fiscal stability, with debt peaking at 76.2% of GDP in 2025-26 and a narrowing deficit. For employees, it offers short-term respite but lacks the ambition to transform lives.