Code requirement
Start with scope
A measured entity must first establish whether the Generic Codes apply or whether a Sector Code issued under section 9 applies. A sector-specific Code can change indicators, weighting and evidentiary expectations.
Code requirement
Confirm entity size
Under the Generic Codes, EMEs, QSEs and Generic enterprises are separated by annual total revenue thresholds. The size category affects the scorecard and documentary route.
Code requirement
Check priority-element exposure
The Generic Codes require Large Enterprises to comply with all priority elements. QSEs must comply with Ownership and either Skills Development or Enterprise and Supplier Development, subject to the applicable rules.
Siza Consulting insight
Treat Sector Codes as their own framework
Do not assume that a Generic Code target or threshold can be copied into a Sector Code calculation. Each binding Sector Code should be read directly and documented in the file.
Published data
Generic Code entity-size thresholds and priority-element rules
The comparison shows why the first scorecard decision is regulatory, not mathematical.
| Label | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| EME | R10 million or less | Annual total revenue threshold / rule |
| QSE | More than R10 million and less than R50 million | Annual total revenue threshold / rule |
| Generic enterprise | Greater than R50 million | Annual total revenue threshold / rule |
| Priority subminimum | 40% for specified priority elements | Annual total revenue threshold / rule |
Source: Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Codes of Good Practice, Gazette 36928, Statement 000 paragraphs 3.3, 4.1 and 5.1, pages 4-6 of the extracted Gazette text, published 2013. Reporting period: Gazette 36928, 11 October 2013. Accessed 19 July 2026.
Methodology note: These are regulatory thresholds and rules, not observed statistics.
Limitation: Sector Codes may set different thresholds or requirements and must be checked separately.
Measurement note
How to read this insight
This is a regulatory comparison, not a statistical chart. Sector Codes may differ and must be checked separately.
The correct Code is not an administrative detail. It is the foundation on which every target, calculation and evidence request rests.
Sources and measurement basis
This insight draws on official publications identified below. Figures retain the definitions, reporting periods and limitations of their original sources.
- Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Codes of Good Practice, Gazette 36928, Statement 000 paragraphs 3.3, 4.1 and 5.1, pages 4-6 of the extracted Gazette text, published 2013. Reporting period: Gazette 36928, 11 October 2013. Accessed 19 July 2026.
General information notice
This content provides general information and does not replace an assessment of an entity’s applicable B-BBEE Code, measurement period, facts, calculations and supporting evidence.