Botswana: The Botswana Unified Revenue Service issued a public notice on 9 July revising the list of foodstuffs eligible for zero-rated VAT under the VAT Act 2026, effective 1 July. The updated list includes specific grains, flours, and cooking oil, provided they are supplied in their natural state and not mixed with other products.

Botswana has introduced new VAT rules for non‑resident digital service providers, requiring registration from 1 June 2026 if supplies exceed BWP 500,000, charging 14 % VAT on B2C services from 1 October 2026, and applying a reverse‑charge regime for B2B services from 1 August 2026. The Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act, 2025, and accompanying regulations provide a simplified reporting framework for these providers.

Botswana will enforce VAT collection on non‑resident digital services from 1 June 2026. The 14 % rate applies to B2C supplies, while B2B services are subject to reverse charge. Non‑resident providers must register if turnover exceeds BWP 500,000 and appoint a local agent, filing quarterly returns.

ATAF presented African viewpoints on VAT treatment of crypto assets and internationally traded services at the OECD Global Forum on VAT in Paris. The presentations highlighted practical, implementable approaches, clear VAT models for token exchange, and the development of a regional toolkit for non‑resident suppliers. The event underscored the importance of regional coordination and stakeholder engagement to align African realities with global VAT policy.