South Africa Government Revenue
General government revenue as % of GDP GGR_NGDP
South Africa's government revenue was 27.65% in 2025, ranked 91st globally. This represents a 1.7% increase from 2024. Data from IMF WEO, covering 2000–2025.
Overview
South Africa's government revenue stood at 27.65% in 2025, a rise of +0.46% from 2024. The IMF projects 27.65% by 2025. South Africa ranked 91st globally.
South Africa's government revenue has exhibited a moderate increase over the past 26 years, with the latest figure standing at 27.64 of GDP. This represents both the all-time peak and a steady rise from the 2003 trough of 21.03, indicating a sustained improvement in the country's fiscal situation. Notably, South Africa's revenue growth trails that of its peer, El Salvador, which boasts a slightly higher figure of 27.74. While the trend has been positive, the country's ranking of 91 globally suggests room for improvement. The government's ability to maintain a stable and increasing revenue base will be crucial in supporting economic growth and development. A significant shift in the trajectory of government revenue could be triggered by changes in the global commodity market, particularly for South Africa's key exports such as gold and platinum, as well as the implementation of more efficient tax policies.
Data & projection
| Year | Government Revenue | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2030* IMF | 27.65% | - | - |
| 2029* IMF | 27.64% | - | - |
| 2028* IMF | 27.59% | - | - |
| 2027* IMF | 27.61% | - | - |
| 2026* IMF | 27.45% | - | - |
| 2025* IMF | 27.65% | - | - |
| 2025 | 27.65% | +0.46% | #91 |
| 2024 | 27.19% | +0.28% | #94 |
| 2023 | 26.91% | −0.73% | #98 |
| 2022 | 27.64% | +0.52% | #91 |
| 2021 | 27.11% | +2.12% | #85 |
| 2020 | 24.99% | −1.33% | #103 |
| 2019 | 26.32% | −0.10% | #101 |
| 2018 | 26.42% | +0.58% | #96 |
| 2017 | 25.84% | −0.34% | #100 |
| 2016 | 26.18% | +0.39% | #96 |
| 2015 | 25.79% | +0.40% | #96 |
| 2014 | 25.40% | +0.39% | #105 |
| 2013 | 25.01% | +0.43% | #105 |
| 2012 | 24.58% | +0.20% | #112 |
| 2011 | 24.38% | +0.55% | #109 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
South Africa matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 1994. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw government revenue improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
The announcement of R10 billion in temporary fuel levy cuts directly reduces South Africa's government revenue, impacting the country's revenue-to-GDP ratio, currently at 27.65
Frequently Asked Questions
South Africa's government revenue was 27.65% in 2025. Ranked 91st globally. This represents a 1.7% increase from the previous year.
South Africa's government revenue peaked at 27.65% in 2025.
The lowest government revenue in South Africa was 21.03% in 2003.
South Africa ranks 91st globally in government revenue as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is GGR_NGDP. Data sourced from IMF WEO.
South Africa's government revenue is projected to reach 27.65% by 2025 based on IMF projection.
The government revenue of South Africa in 2025 was 27.65%. This ranks 91st in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_south-africa_government-revenue,
title = {South Africa Government Revenue},
url = {https://historysaid.com/south-africa/government-revenue/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}