The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has, once again, called on the National Treasury to remove the 15% value-added tax (VAT) on specific chicken products, ahead of the 2026 National Budget, which is set to be presented on February 25.

SAPA has long advocated that chicken be added to South Africa’s list of zero-rated basic foodstuffs, joining the likes of maize meal, rice, milk, eggs, tinned pilchards and brown bread.

Removing the tax would reduce the cost of the country’s most widely consumed animal protein source and provide direct relief to low-income households facing increasing food insecurity.

SAPA broiler organisation CEO Izaak Breitenbach motivates that chicken is a staple food relied on by millions of South Africans and that adding it to the list of zero-rated items could improve affordability and nutritional quality for vulnerable households.

He explains that chicken provides between 24 g and 32 g of protein per 100 g cooked, along with essential micronutrients. Most VAT savings on frozen chicken accrue to the bottom income groups, making it a highly progressive intervention for an unforgiving regressive tax.

To ensure the measure is targeted, SAPA’s proposal to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana includes a clear definition of “chicken” for VAT purposes. It covers frozen chicken meat on the bone and uncooked offal commonly bought by low-income households, while excluding processed and ready-to-eat products.

“Our submission is aligned with government’s commitment, reiterated in the 2025 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, to support low-income and vulnerable households through social protection. As Treasury considers options for the 2026 Budget, zero-rating chicken offers an immediate, evidence-based response to rising food insecurity and declining household purchasing power.”

Breitenbach concludes that this is not a short-term concession, but a structural intervention that strengthens food security, supports jobs and improves nutritional outcomes for future generations.