South Africa Tobacco Tax Up 3.4% in 2026 | Difference Between Tax Per 1 Pack and Retail Price

Article updated: 2026-10-20 | Information checked: 2026-10-20

South Africa Tobacco Tax Up 3.4% in 2026 | Difference Between Tax Per 1 Pack and Retail Price

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) explains that excise duties on alcohol and tobacco were increased by 3.4% effective 2026-2-25. The figure per 1 pack in the Budget Speech is the tax amount, not the retail price in stores.

On 2026-10-20,official local informationwas checked. We distinguish the date we checked guidance and documents from the date a rule or work was introduced.

Key points to check

Item	What official information confirms
Applicable fiscal year	2026/27 fiscal year
Effective date of revision	2026-2-25
Rate of increase indicated by SARS	3.4％
Electronic products with or without nicotine	Scope of revision and official guidance

What does the figure for a 20-cigarette pack refer to?

The government2026 Budget Speechexplains that the excise tax on a pack of 20 cigarettes is raised from 22.81 rand to 23.58 rand. Presenting this figure directly as the retail price of 1 pack sold locally is incorrect.

Align the figures being compared before converting to Japanese yen

When comparing cigarette costs overseas, you must align whether the figure is the tax amount or retail price, and how many cigarettes are in a pack. This material explains the tax revision and is not a survey of current store prices for individual brands.

Starting in 2027, the adjustment date schedule will also change

The SARS FAQ also notes that starting from the 2027 Budget, excise duty adjustments will take effect on 4-1 each year. When comparing documents from different fiscal years or dates, check the effective date.

Sources and scope of checks

Official source documents. Checked on 2026-10-20. This explanation is based on published information, rather than an on-site visit or verification that a facility is operating.

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