Budget Speech 2026: Inflation-linked ALCOHOL duty plan cheered
· The South African
The National Liquor Traders Council has welcomed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s decision to limit excise duty increases on alcohol products to inflation-linked adjustments.
Godongwana announced the changes during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament on Wednesday, outlining government’s revised tax and spending framework for the new financial year.
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Under the new adjustments:
- A 340ml can of beer or cider will increase by 8 cents
- A 750ml bottle of wine will rise by 15 cents
- A 750ml bottle of spirits will increase by R3.20
National Liquor Traders spokesperson Lucky Ntimane said inflation-linked increases represent an important step in tackling illicit and counterfeit alcohol.
“Excessive and unpredictable tax hikes have historically created price distortions that make illegal products more attractive to consumers,” Ntimane said.
“By restoring predictability and moderation to the excise framework, government strengthens the position of lawful traders while narrowing the space in which criminal syndicates thrive.”
Help legitimate traders
The council maintains that stable and predictable excise adjustments will help legitimate traders plan more effectively while reducing incentives for consumers to turn to unregulated alcohol products.
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