Regulatory Developments: What Requires Attention and What Needs Monitoring?

Local government elections – 4 November 2026

The Inter-Ministerial Committee convened by CoGTA has confirmed satisfaction with readiness preparations ahead of the 4 November 2026 local government elections.

Review relevant business continuity, employee safety and stakeholder communication arrangements.

Competition Commission: Aftermarket Guidance

The Competition Commission has published draft guidance on competition in repair, service and maintenance aftermarket markets, with public comment closing on 2 November 2026.

Consultation closing – manufacturers, distributors and aftermarket service providers should assess implications for vertical restraints and warranty practices.

Stock Theft Amendment Bill, 2026 open for comment

The Department of Agriculture has published the draft Stock Theft Amendment Bill, 2026 for public comment, closing on 2 November 2026.

Consultation closing – relevant to agricultural sector governance, rural safety and compliance planning. Agricultural businesses should assess proposed changes affecting livestock ownership, identification and compliance controls.

CIPC strengthens director amendment controls

CIPC is reviewing the company director amendment process to prevent unauthorised changes; the updated process will be released on 16 October 2026 and implemented in phases, starting with small companies where directors and shareholders are the same individuals.

Companies should review director appointment authorisations, filing controls and statutory record integrity. First phase in implementation – companies should monitor subsequent iterations.

FSCA publishes 2026 Three-Year Regulation Plan

The FSCA has set out its strategic roadmap for South Africa's financial sector market conduct regulatory framework from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029.

Financial institutions should incorporate relevant priorities into regulatory monitoring and compliance planning.

SARS VAT modernisation consultation

SARS invited stakeholders to comment on VAT modernisation proposals, with the consultation period closing on 16 October 2026.

Organisations should monitor consultation outcomes and potential implications for tax systems and reporting controls.