Best to quit now: 6-pack of beer to cost 60c more, cigarettes almost R2 more

If you’re a smoker or enjoy a cold beer after work, you might want to brace yourself. The government has announced increases in sin taxes on alcohol and tobacco, meaning your favourite drinks and smokes are about to get more expensive. Here’s what you need to know, straight from the 2025 Budget Speech by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. What’s […]
VAT for Dummies: here’s what the VAT increase means for us Average Joes

Government needs more money to pay for important things like healthcare, education, and infrastructure (roads, water, electricity) so it is increasing VAT.
Budget balancing avoids blood bath

After weeks of political debate, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana finally delivered the 2025 Budget Speech. The delay was due to disputes over the proposed VAT hike, which opposition parties warned would be a “bloodbath” for South African businesses. They argued that higher VAT would raise costs for struggling small businesses and increase prices for consumers, […]
Budget speech delayed for first time since 1994 amid VAT increase dispute

The budget speech has been postponed due to a cabinet rift over a proposed VAT increase. What’s the economic impact?