Budget 2026: Did CIBA Move the Needle?

When CIBA argued for broader participation instead of higher tax rates, many expected another year of increased pressure on compliant taxpayers. Instead, Budget 2026 withdrew proposed tax hikes, restored full inflation relief, and significantly raised the VAT threshold for small businesses.

This is not just policy housekeeping. It signals a shift toward growth, stability and SME breathing room.

What did CIBA ask for? What did government deliver? And where does reform still need to go?

Here’s the straight comparison - proposal versus outcome -and what it means for practitioners on the ground.

Budget 2026: Relief, Reality… and a Bigger Question

South Africa’s latest Budget promises debt stabilisation, infrastructure investment and long-awaited tax relief. But beneath the headline numbers lies a bigger story: a narrow tax base, rising debt costs and an economy still searching for momentum. Will this Budget truly unlock growth, or are we simply buying time? Here’s what changes, what it means for your pocket, and what it signals for the country’s economic future.

South Africa doesn’t have too few tax laws, it has too few thriving taxpayers. When small businesses are pushed into full compliance before they are profitable, and when access to finance remains tighter than access to regulation, we are not building a broader tax base, we are narrowing it. Budget 2026 must decide: will it tax survival, or enable scale?

With the May 2025 Budget it is clear that SARS needs to step up, and your clients need to be ready. With a record revenue target and hundreds of new hires focused on debt collection, Budget 2025/26 marks a serious ramp-up in enforcement. From AI-powered audits to crackdowns on the illicit economy, here’s what accountants need to know to stay ahead of the compliance curve.

The 2025 Budget has been met with uncertainty, frustration, and debate. With a looming VAT increase, growing debt, and bold promises of economic recovery, South Africans are left wondering: Will this budget bring relief or more strain? CIBA dives deep into the key proposals, the potential impact on businesses and taxpayers, and what needs to change for a sustainable economic future. Read on to discover where we stand and what we recommend.

This year’s budget is all about striking a balance—managing the country’s rising debt while still investing in things that matter, like education, healthcare, and energy security. Our government plans to draw from reserves to cut borrowing instead of hiking tax rates—but don’t get too excited just yet. Income tax brackets won’t be adjusted for inflation, so many people will end up paying more tax anyway. Expect higher prices on alcohol and cigarettes, possible fuel levy increases, and tax breaks for green energy businesses. With debt climbing towards 75% of GDP, big decisions are coming—how will they affect you? Let’s break it down!

How will the new Medium-Term Budget Policy shape the future of accounting in South Africa? From Operation Vulindlela's reforms to SARS' new strategies, discover what these changes mean for accountants and how to seize the opportunities ahead. Read the full article for insights and action points!

The 2024 South African budget plans to save more and stabilize the country's debt within the next few years, aiming for a healthier financial situation by 2025/26. Despite planning to spend up to R2.6 trillion by 2026/27, it doesn't directly raise taxes. Instead, it introduces other ways that could increase costs for families and businesses. This approach is about being careful with money while still ensuring important public services are funded.

Stay informed as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana unveils the 2024 budget, navigating economic challenges and outlining strategies for growth, social support, and fiscal stability.