Pretoria: The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced a remarkable gross revenue collection of R2.3 trillion by the end of March, marking a 6.9% increase compared to the previous year. This achievement was revealed by SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter during a media briefing on Tuesday.
According to South African Government News Agency, the preliminary net revenue results amounted to R1.855 trillion, with refunds totaling approximately R447.7 billion. Kieswetter highlighted that the net revenue of R1.855 trillion signifies a growth of R114 billion, or 6.6%, over the previous year. This figure also surpasses the revised estimate by R8.8 billion, which he described as a credible outcome delivered by SARS under the current circumstances.
Kieswetter credited the diligent efforts of the revenue service’s 13,000 employees for the successful results. He noted the importance of creating a conducive work environment and implementing an employee engagement program that increased engagement from 61.6% in 2019/20 to 71%. These efforts, he said, were essential in building an institution capable of fulfilling its mandate and ensuring sustainable revenue projections.
The Commissioner underscored the critical role of SARS in funding South Africa’s democracy, describing the revenue service as a “national treasure.” He emphasized that SARS is vital in enabling the government to build a capable state that promotes economic growth and social development, ultimately serving the wellbeing of all South Africans. Kieswetter urged that SARS, as a crucial institution, should never be taken for granted.