Lifestyle audits
Lifestyle audits are conducted by SARS’ Specialised Audit Unit. The unit focuses on individuals, businesses and related entities in the small and medium sector of the taxpayer/trader base, particularly those operating within the illicit economy. Ultimately, SARS seeks to improve voluntary compliance of taxpayers and traders by conducting comprehensive, integrated in-depth civil audits.
read more >>AI deployment
Since 2020, SARS has sought to integrate data-driven insights, self-learning computers and AI into its work. The revenue authority in 2024 reported the success of this process in improving its revenue collection efforts. The compliance programme has particularly benefited from the process which has in part sought to optimise debt recovery.
read more >>General Laws (anti-money laundering and combating terrorism financing — AML/CFT) Amendment Act
The legislation was enacted into law in 2022. The Amendment Act introduces stricter requirements for customer due diligence, record-keeping and suspicious transaction reporting, making compliance mandatory for a wider range of institutions, including DNFBPs and NPOs. The act expands the powers of AML/CFT supervisory authorities such as the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), Financial Sector Conduct…
read more >>Protection of Constitutional Democracy Against Terrorism and Related Actives Amendment Act
The Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Amendment Act 23 of 2022 is also referred to as the counter-terrorism law. It forms part of the successful efforts to get SA off the FAFT’s grey list. This law amended the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act 2004 to serve…
read more >>Proactive response
Risk assessments of South African Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) are essential for identifying strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for enhancing international cooperation in criminal matters. In terms of the legal framework, this has evolved in recent years with the MLA Criminal Matters Act (MLACMA) forming the foundation for requests and collaboration with international jurisdictions. COMPLETE: We…
read more >>FATF Grey Listing Remediation
The FATF confirmed on 13 June 2025 that all 22 action items are complete. On-site assessment by the FATF Africa Joint Group is scheduled before the October 2025 plenary. If sustained implementation and political commitment are confirmed, South Africa is expected to be removed from the grey list in October 2025. Remaining vigilant is critical:…
read more >>Action taken against unlicensed entities
Guidance was published by the FIC to assist accountable institutions to adhere to their international funds transfer reporting obligations in terms of FICA and the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Control Regulations. This means that financial services providers like banks (and others in the finance industry) are required to report certain information to the FIC…
read more >>National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Amendment Bill
The bill was tabled in parliament in 2023 as part of the implementation of recommendations from the Zondo Commission inquiry into state capture, to enhance the independence of the NPA through the IDAC, including operational capacity and ability to prosecute high-profile corruption cases. In May 2024, the president signed the bill into law (National Prosecuting…
read more >>Private sector skills transfer
The NPA hires experts from the private sector, particularly in cases requiring specialised skills or when dealing with complex investigations. This is permitted under Section 38 of the National Prosecuting Authority Act and is seen as a way to enhance the NPA’s capacity, especially in areas like financial crime and state capture cases. NPA units…
read more >>Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) Amendment Bill
The IPID is mandated to investigate criminal misconduct and offences committed by law enforcement members but cannot do so effectively when it is controlled by the police ministry. The IPID Bill (2023), initiated by the SAPS, has been enacted into law (30 July 2024). The act aims to increase the institutional and operational/ functional independence…
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