SARS Commissioner to release revenue collection tally for 2024/25

The South African Revenue Service (SARS)’s Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter, will on Wednesday announce the revenue service’s final collection tally for the 2025 financial year.

He has a target of around R2 trillion that Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana set on the back of anticipated improved tax compliance and stronger corporate tax receipts.

SARS, however, continues to grapple with a shrinking tax base, sluggish economic growth and the expansion of the illicit economy, which have intensified pressure to improve efficiency in revenue collection.

To support the set target, Godongwana allocated R7.5 billion in last year’s budget to strengthen SARS’ capacity, particularly through investment in technology.

Kieswetter previously estimated that as much as R800 billion is lost annually to uncollected taxes and illicit financial flows.

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Despite these challenges, SARS collected a record R1.8 trillion in the 2024 financial year and is expected to surpass this figure.

A strong performance would mark a significant milestone for Kieswetter, who has led SARS for seven years after taking over in the wake of State capture to stabilise the institution.

He’s been widely lauded as a highly successful commissioner and credited with rebuilding SARS from the ashes of State capture.

Meanwhile, the process to appoint his successor is nearing completion.

Godongwana recently confirmed in Parliament that a shortlist has been submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa, with an announcement expected soon.

Kieswetter is, however, expected to remain in the role until later in 2026 to ensure a smooth leadership transition.