IFRS for SMEs is a financial reporting framework designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It simplifies accounting rules, reduces paperwork, and lowers compliance costs while still following international standards. Unlike full IFRS, it has fewer disclosures, simpler financial instruments, and an easier approach to leases and goodwill. This makes it a practical choice for private companies that do not need complex financial reporting. Businesses using IFRS for SMEs can benefit from clearer financial statements, lower costs, and easier compliance while maintaining credibility with investors and lenders.

In this article we explore how small farmers in South Africa can simplify their financial management by adopting tax basis accounting, aligning their accounts to SARS requirements. Using an example, we show how market transactions and standard value inventory adjustments lead to efficient tax-ready financial statements.