Sectoral numerical targets under the Employment Equity Act

At a glance

• The Employment Equity Regulations (Regulations) were published on 15 April 2025.
• The Regulations establish five-year numerical targets for designated employers across 18 economic sectors.

Following amendments to the Employment Equity Act 1998 which came into effect on 1 January 2025, the Employment Equity Regulations (Regulations) were published on 15 April 2025 by the Minister of Employment and Labour.

The Regulations establish five-year numerical targets for designated employers (ie employers who employ more than 50 employees) across 18 economic sectors.

Under the Regulations,  designated employers must adopt a five-year employment equity plan based on the sectoral targets which include a 3% disability employment goal.

Going forward designated employers will only be able to obtain a certificate of compliance to do work for government if they have met the applicable sectoral targets or have a reasonable ground for non-compliance; and provided that there have been no complaints of unfair discrimination in relation to that employer.