South Africa uses the SARS (South African Revenue Service) Customs system with electronic declaration through e@syFile or via EDI. The DA38 form is the import entry document. South Africa applies EAC tariff rates as a SACU (Southern African Customs Union) member, meaning common tariffs with Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini.
South African Customs
- SARS Customs and Excise manages all imports
- Electronic declarations via Customs Connect (formerly SARS EDI)
- DA38 — import entry document
- Key ports: Durban (largest African port by volume), Cape Town, Port Elizabeth
SACU Tariff Rates
SACU Common External Tariff: 0–45% depending on product. Ad valorem rates plus some specific rates on textiles, clothing, vehicles. Import VAT: 15% on CIF + duty. SADC FTA provides zero/reduced duty for SADC member countries' goods.
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