South Africa Capital Gains Tax
Detailed capital gains tax rates and rules for South Africa in 2026.
Capital GainsZAR
Capital gains tax in South Africa is levied by including a portion of the net capital gain in taxable income. For individuals, 40% of the gain is included (effective maximum rate of 18%). For companies, 80% of the gain is included (effective rate of 21.6%). Trusts face an 80% inclusion rate at the 45% marginal rate (effective 36%). The annual exclusion for individuals is R40,000, and a R2 million primary residence exclusion applies.
Standard Rate
18%
Exemptions
- Primary residence exclusion up to R2 million gain
- Annual exclusion of R40,000 for individuals
- Exclusion of R300,000 on death
- Personal-use assets below R2 million
- Retirement fund proceeds
How South Africa Capital Gains compares
South Africa’s capital gains tax rate of 18% is the 74th highest of 203 countries TaxAtlas tracks, above the global average of 13.8% and Africa’s regional average of 14.1%.
South Africa
18%
Africa average
14.1%
Global average
13.8%
