Tax breaks for FIFA gear

Johannesburg - The SA Revenue Service (Sars) on Thursday announced it would be giving tax exemptions of R750 on the purchase of FIFA-related products.

"The exemption will only apply to 2010 FIFA World Cup-related goods, such as t-shirts, jerseys and similar clothing, and match tickets," Sars said in a statement.

The once-off exemption would be applicable to individuals for the 2010/11 year.

The exemption would also benefit employers who had encouraged their employees to wear soccer gear.

"In most cases these t-shirts, jerseys and similar clothing are acquired by the employees themselves.

"However, some employers are providing World Cup t-shirts, jerseys and match tickets to their employees at no or little cost," read the statement.

These items from employers were usually taxed as a "fringe benefit".

However, the tax exemption would create a limited exception to this rule.

 - Sapa