Lesotho vs Afghanistan
Tax Rate Comparison
Enter your income below for a personal tax estimate, then scroll down for full rate breakdowns.
π° Personal Income Tax Calculator
Enter your income to see your estimated annual tax liability in each country β side by side.
π±πΈ Lesotho β Lesotho Tax System
Lesotho is a landlocked enclave within South Africa with progressive income tax up to 35%. VAT is 15%. The country's economy is closely tied to South Africa β customs revenues from SACU (Southern African Customs Union) provide a major share of government income. Textile exports (especially to the US under AGOA) and diamond mining are key sectors. Water royalties from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project also contribute.
π¦π« Afghanistan β Afghanistan Tax System
Afghanistan's formal tax system has largely collapsed since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. The Taliban government (Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan) has implemented its own revenue collection based on Islamic principles β zakat (2.5% wealth tax on assets held for a year), ushr (10% agricultural tithe), and customs duties. International sanctions have frozen most government assets. USAID and World Bank tax programs ended. The formal income tax system from the previous government nominally exists but is not enforced.
Lesotho vs Afghanistan: Key Tax Differences (2026)
π° Income Tax: π±πΈ Lesotho has a higher top income tax rate (0β35% vs 0β20%). π¦π« Afghanistan is more favourable for high earners.
π VAT/Sales Tax: Lesotho has a higher consumption tax (15% vs 10%).
π’ Corporate Tax: π¦π« Afghanistan offers a lower corporate rate (20% vs 25%), which can influence business location decisions.
π Capital Gains: π¦π« Afghanistan taxes investment gains at a lower rate (0% vs 25%), benefiting investors.