South Africa

South Africa has the second-largest economy in Africa, characterised by a mix of modern industry, mining, agriculture, and a well-developed financial sector. It is one of the most developed and industrialised countries in Africa and has a diverse and growing economy. However, the country faces various economic challenges, including high unemployment, income inequality, and structural constraints.

The nation is going to great lengths to establish itself as a contender to the worlds markets. Land and property is still relatively low-cost, attracting some of the biggest global data center-hosting companies to build vast buildings, which offer space for business to run and store their computer networks.  This in turn drives up the consumption of technology on a huge scale.

Import guidelines

Importing dual-use goods into South Africa involves following specific procedures and complying with relevant regulations. Dual-use goods refer to items that have both civilian and military applications. To import dual-use goods into South Africa, you would typically follow these steps:

Importer registration: The import process is controlled by the country’s national tax collection authority, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which  defines around 90,000 strictly enforced product tariffs.

Ensure you have a South Africa registered business and are registered as an Importer with SARS. All exporters are encouraged to engage with SARS, or a reputable third-party customs agent, to make sure the import of their goods into South Africa proceeds smoothly and correctly.

After registration, an importer must then apply to the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) for a permit to allow you to import (relevant for used goods, dual-use, or waste and scrap).

Classification: Determine the classification of the goods according to the South African Control List for dual-use goods. This list is based on international export control regimes such as the Wassenaar Arrangement.

Export Control Authorities: Contact the relevant export control authorities in your home country to ensure compliance with their regulations. They may require export licences or permits for dual-use goods.

Import Permit: Apply for an import permit from the South African authorities. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC) are responsible for issuing import permits for dual-use goods.

Documentation: Prepare the necessary documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, transport documents, and any additional permits or licences required by South African authorities.

Customs Clearance: Submit the documentation to South African Customs for clearance. Customs will review the documents, verify the goods, and assess any applicable duties, taxes, or fees.

Duties and taxes: Value Added Tax (VAT) in South Africa is a static 15% of the CIF (cost, insurance and freight) value; this mean the value of the goods plus the cost of freight are used as the base for the calculation for levied charges.

Inspection: Depending on the nature of the goods, the South African authorities may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with import regulations and to verify the end-use of the goods.

Compliance Verification: South Africa has implemented a risk-based approach to dual-use goods. This means that if your goods are deemed high-risk, you may need to provide additional information or undergo a more thorough compliance verification process.

Need help importing to South Africa?

If your end-user doesn’t wish to be involved in the import process, or they don’t possess the necessary permits to import to South Africa, using an Importer of Record service such Mouse & Bear Solutions is the ideal alternative.

If you need further assistance with importing dual use goods into South Africa, please get in touch. 

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