THE NEW SARS TAX REGULATIONS: MZANSI CREATIVES WEIGH IN

SOUTH African influencers are speaking out after the South African Revenue Service (SARS) confirmed that digital creators will be required to declare all income, including gifts and sponsored perks.

- NOMATHAMSANGA SITHATHU.

LINE Ferreira is a fashion and beauty content creator who also has a corporate job to keep the balance. ASEZA Mnyiphika is a young fashion influencer and Fashion Nova Curve ambassador.

(Instagram Instagram)

The announcement has sparked debate across the industry, with some arguing that the tax rules are unfair while others call for more clarity and dialogue.

Television personality and content creator Lasizwe Dambuza has been one of the most vocal critics.

Dambuza also pointed to the hidden costs of content creation, and according to him, many creators spend more than they earn by covering expenses such as transport, makeup and outfits for appearances, sometimes without payment.

“Sometimes you'll maybe get a goodie bag, and now even that is seen as taxable,’ he added.

While making it clear that he pays tax, Dambuza has urged SARS to open up a proper conversation with creators about what fair taxation would look like. He stressed that the industry is not straightforward, with blurred lines between gifting, trade exchanges, and delayed payments.

“Yes, creators are getting cars, campaigns, and visibility, but the lines between income, trade, and gifting are still unclear. That’s why we need structure, education, and open dialogue, not shame or confusion,” he said.