Connecting South Africa across Africa and beyond
Limark has been a trusted partner for South African businesses, facilitating growth and success in the dynamic landscape of international trade. We provide end-to-end logistics solutions tailored to various industries’ diverse needs, ensuring the efficient movement of cargo from automotive components and mining equipment to agricultural products and consumer goods.
Our extensive network, spanning key ports and transportation hubs across Africa and beyond, combined with our strategic partnerships, provides smooth access to international markets, empowering South African businesses to thrive on a global scale.
Import regulations
Importing goods to South Africa requires navigating specific procedures and documentation. Here’s a breakdown of the essential requirements:
Product categories requiring import licenses/permits
Agricultural Products and Foodstuffs
Imports of live animals, animal products (meat, dairy), plants, seeds, and certain food products require import permits from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD).
Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) certificates are mandatory for most agricultural imports to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
- The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) regulates the import of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- All medicines require registration with SAHPRA, and a valid import permit is needed for each shipment.
- Medical devices must comply with relevant technical standards and be registered with SAHPRA before importation.
Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
- Imports of chemicals and hazardous materials are regulated by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) under the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC).
- Import permits are required, and detailed safety data sheets (SDS) must be provided.
- Compliance with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is mandatory.
Clothing, Textiles, and Footwear
- Imports of clothing, textiles, and footwear are subject to specific regulations and may require permits from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC).
- These products may be subject to import duties, anti-dumping duties, or safeguard measures to protect the local industry.
Vehicles and Automotive Components
- Imports of vehicles and automotive components are regulated by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS).
- Import permits are required for used vehicles, and they must comply with specific age and emission standards.
- New vehicles are generally exempt from import permits but must adhere to safety and emissions standards.
Other Regulated Products
Additional import licenses or permits may be required for various other products, including:
- Weapons and ammunition: Regulated by the South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Explosives: Regulated by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
- Radio and telecommunications equipment: Regulated by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)
- Cultural artifacts: Regulated by the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC)
- Dual-use goods: Regulated by the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC)
Prohibited and restricted imports
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- Pornographic and obscene materials
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Hazardous waste (Basel Convention)
- Ozone-depleting substances (Montreal Protocol)
- Counterfeit currency and stamps
- Endangered species and products (unless authorized by CITES)
Restricted (require permits)
- Live animals and animal products
- Plants and plant products
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives
- Radioactive materials
- Used vehicles
- Second-hand goods
- Waste and scrap
- Certain chemicals and pesticides
- Gambling equipment
Relevant agencies
- South African Revenue Service (SARS) – Customs: Responsible for customs administration and enforcement of import regulations.
- Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD): Regulates the import of food, agricultural products, and live animals.
- South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA): Regulates the import of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS): Regulates the import of chemicals, hazardous materials, and certain industrial products.
- International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC): Regulates the import of certain goods, including clothing, textiles, and footwear.
Other relevant agencies
- Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC)
- Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
- South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)
- Department of Arts and Culture (DAC), National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC).
Free Time
- Generally, 7 days for general cargo and 14 days for containerized cargo after discharge.
- Free time can vary depending on the shipping line, terminal, and specific agreements.
Demurrage charges
- Applied when the free time is exceeded
- Calculated per container, per day
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line, container size, and time elapsed
Detention charges
- Applied when the container is held beyond the agreed-upon time for return to the shipping line after being picked up from the port.
- Separate from demurrage charges.
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line and container size.
Storage Limitations
- Port terminals have limited storage capacity.
- Containers not cleared within the allowed time are moved to an off-dock depot at the importer’s expense.
Calculation Methods
- Demurrage and detention are calculated based on calendar days, including weekends and public holidays.
- Shipping lines usually have escalating tariff structures for extended delays.
Commercial Invoice
- Detailed description of goods (including HS codes, brand, model, specifications, etc.)
- Quantity, weight, and unit price of goods
- Total invoice value in a freely convertible currency (usually USD or EUR)
- Incoterms (International Commercial Terms)
- Payment terms (e.g., letter of credit, telegraphic transfer)
- Full details of the consignee and consignor (name, address, contact information)
Packing List
- Detailed list of all items in each package, including description, quantity, weight, dimensions, and package markings.
- Should match the information on the commercial invoice and bill of lading.
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Serves as evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier.
- Details of the shipment, including the consignee, consignor, port of loading/discharge, vessel/flight details, date of shipment, number and type of packages, and gross weight and measurement of the cargo.
Certificate of Origin
- Declares the origin of the goods.
- Issued by the Chamber of Commerce in the exporting country.
- May be required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements (e.g., SADC).
Import Permit/License (for regulated goods)
- Issued by the relevant government agency.
- Required for specific products as mentioned above.
Other Certificates
- Phytosanitary certificate (for plants and plant products)
- Health certificate (for animals and animal products)
- Certificate of analysis (for chemicals and food products)
- CITES permit (for endangered species)
- Pre-shipment inspection certificate (PSI) for certain goods.
Import Licenses and Permits
- Identify the Regulating Agency: Determine the specific ministry or agency responsible for your goods based on the product category.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Proforma invoice or commercial contract
- Technical specifications and data sheets (if applicable)
- Certificates of origin, analysis, quality, etc.
- Business registration documents (for companies)
- Company tax clearance certificate
- Any additional documentation specific to the product or agency
- Submit Application:
- Complete the import permit application form.
- Submit the application along with the required documents and fees to the relevant agency.
- Applications are typically submitted online through the respective agency’s portal or in person.
- Processing and Approval:
- The application will be reviewed and processed by the agency.
- Processing times vary but can take several weeks.
- If approved, the import permit/license will be issued electronically or in paper form.
- Validity and Renewal:
- The validity period of import permits varies depending on the product and agency, typically ranging from a few months to a year.
- Renewal procedures involve submitting a new application with updated documents before the expiry date.
- Costs:
- Import permit fees vary depending on the product and agency.
- Additional costs may include inspection fees and testing fees.
Customs clearance procedures
- Registration: Importers must register with SARS Customs and obtain a customs code.
- Submission of Documents: The importer or their clearing agent submits the required documents, including the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and import permit (if applicable) through the SARS Customs’ electronic data interchange (EDI) system.
- Risk Assessment and Classification: Customs assesses the risk of the shipment and classifies the goods according to the Harmonized System (HS) code.
- Duty and Tax Calculation: Customs calculates the applicable duties, taxes, and levies based on the HS code, value, and origin of the goods.
- Payment of Duties and Taxes: The importer or their agent pays the assessed amount through the designated bank.
- Examination and Inspection: Customs may select shipments for inspection based on risk assessment. Inspections can be documentary, physical, or non-intrusive (e.g., X-ray scanning, etc.).
- Release and Delivery: Upon successful completion of all customs formalities and payment of duties/taxes, customs release the goods for delivery to the importer or their designated agent.
Port/Terminal operations
Major Seaports
- Port of Durban: The largest and busiest port in South Africa, handling containerized, bulk, and break-bulk cargo. It has modern facilities and efficient cargo-handling services.
- Port of Ngqura: A deep-water port specializing in container handling and transshipment operations.
- Port of Cape Town: A major port for containerized and bulk cargo, also serving as a cruise ship terminal.
- Port of Richards Bay: Primarily handles bulk cargo, especially coal, and other mineral exports.
- Port of Saldanha Bay: A deep-water port specializing in iron ore exports.
Air Cargo Hubs
- R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): The main international airport in Johannesburg, with extensive cargo handling facilities and connections to major global destinations.
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT): Another major airport handling air cargo imports, with good facilities and connections.
Cut-off Dates and Procedures at Terminals
Cut-off dates: Vary depending on the shipping line, destination, and type of cargo. Typically, cut-off times for documentation are a few days before the vessel’s estimated time of arrival (ETA), while the cargo cut-off is closer to the ETA. It is crucial to confirm the cut-off dates with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance to avoid delays and additional costs.
Procedures: Generally involve submitting required documentation electronically through the SARS Customs system, arranging for customs clearance, coordinating container pickup or drop-off with the terminal operator, and complying with any specific security or safety requirements at the terminal.
Container Pickup/Drop-off and Storage
Container Pickup/Drop-off: Coordinate with your shipping agent or freight forwarder for smooth container pickup and drop-off procedures at the port or terminal. Ensure proper documentation and authorization are in place.
Storage: All major ports offer container storage facilities, but space may be limited. Free time for storage varies depending on the shipping line and the type of cargo, typically ranging from 3 to 7 days. After the free time, demurrage charges will apply. Consider off-dock storage options for longer-term storage needs.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Export regulations
Get a detailed guide that provides an in-depth look into every aspect of the export process to ensure your goods are shipped efficiently and in compliance with all legal standards.
Product categories requiring export licenses/permits
Strategic Goods and Dual-Use Items
The export of strategic goods, including military equipment, firearms, ammunition, and dual-use items (goods with both civilian and military applications) is strictly regulated by the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC).
Exporters must obtain export permits from the NCACC and comply with international arms control agreements and sanctions.
Minerals and Ores
South Africa is a major exporter of minerals like gold, platinum, coal, iron ore, and manganese.
The export of minerals requires permits from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) to ensure compliance with mining laws and environmental regulations.
Exporters must provide proof of legal acquisition of minerals and adhere to export quotas or restrictions for certain minerals.
Precious Metals and Stones
The export of precious metals like gold and platinum, as well as diamonds and other precious stones, is regulated by the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator (SADPMR).
Export permits are required, and exporters must comply with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) for diamonds to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds.
Scrap Metal
The export of scrap metal is regulated by the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) due to concerns about illicit trade and environmental impact.
Export permits are required, and exporters must comply with specific requirements for sorting, processing, and documentation.
Agricultural Products
The export of agricultural products like fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock is regulated by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD).
Phytosanitary certificates are required for plants and plant products to ensure they are free from pests and diseases.
Health certificates are necessary for live animals and animal products to meet sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards.
Other Regulated Products
Other products that may require export licenses or permits include:
- Chemicals and hazardous materials
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
- Waste products
- Cultural artifacts
- Certain types of machinery and equipment
- Prohibited and Restricted Exports:
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- Pornographic and obscene materials
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Hazardous waste (Basel Convention)
- Ozone-depleting substances (Montreal Protocol)
- Counterfeit currency and stamps
- Endangered species and products (unless authorized by CITES)
Restricted (require permits)
- Strategic goods and dual-use items
- Minerals and ores
- Precious metals and stones
- Scrap metal
- Live animals and animal products
- Plants and plant products
- Chemicals and hazardous materials
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
- Waste products
- Cultural artifacts
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods (including HS codes, specifications, quantity, weight, value), Incoterms, payment terms, and complete details of the consignee and consignor.
- Packing List: Itemized list of goods in each package, including description, quantity, weight, dimensions, and package markings.
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill: Evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier, including details of the shipment, consignee, consignor, and port of loading/discharge.
- Certificate of Origin: Issued by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) or an accredited chamber of commerce, certifying the origin of the goods.
- Export Permit/License (if applicable): Issued by the relevant government agency for regulated products.
- DA 65 Export Declaration: Electronic declaration submitted through the SARS Customs system, providing detailed information about the shipment.
Export Declaration Process (through SARS Customs)
- Register as an exporter on the SARS eFiling platform.
- Prepare and submit the DA 65 Export Declaration electronically through SARS eFiling.
- Customs verifies the declaration and supporting documents.
- If compliant, customs approves the export and issues a release notification.
- Pay any applicable export duties or taxes.
Required Export Certificates
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for plants and plant products): Issued by the DALRRD.
- Health Certificate (for live animals and animal products): Issued by the DVS.
- Certificate of Analysis (for certain products): Issued by accredited laboratories to confirm quality and safety standards.
- Kimberley Process Certificate (for rough diamonds): Issued by the SADPMR.
- CITES Permit (for endangered species): Issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA).
Major Seaports
- Port of Durban: The largest and busiest port, handling containerized, bulk, and break-bulk cargo.
- Port of Ngqura: A modern deep-water port specializing in container handling and transshipment operations.
- Port of Cape Town: A major port for containerized and bulk cargo, also serving as a cruise ship terminal.
- Port of Richards Bay: Primarily handles bulk cargo, especially coal, and other mineral exports.
- Port of Saldanha Bay: A deep-water port specializing in iron ore exports.
Air Cargo Hubs
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): The main international airport in Johannesburg, with extensive cargo handling facilities and connections to major global destinations.
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT): Another major airport handling air cargo exports, with good facilities and connections.
Cut-off times and procedures at terminals
- Vary depending on the shipping line, destination, and type of cargo.
- Confirm with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance.
- Procedures typically include document submission through SARS Customs, customs clearance, security screening, and container loading.
Container Storage and Free Time
- All major ports offer container storage facilities.
- Free time for storage varies depending on the port and shipping line, typically ranging from 3 to 7 days.
- Storage fees apply after the free time expires.
Returning Empty Containers
- Coordinate with your shipping line or agent to return empty containers to the designated depot.
- Failure to return containers on time may result in detention charges.
Duties, Taxes, and Fees
Export Duties: Generally, South Africa does not impose export duties on most goods. However, export levies may apply to specific products like scrap metal.
Other Fees: Customs processing fees, document handling charges, terminal handling charges, storage fees (if applicable), and any specific taxes or levies related to the exported product.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and is subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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Seamless cross-border logistics to and from South Africa
Navigating South Africa’s intricate trade landscape can be daunting, but Limark is your trusted partner in simplifying the process. Our in-depth understanding of local regulations and customs procedures ensures your shipments move seamlessly, eliminating costly delays and potential disruptions.
Our ever-expanding footprint in South Africa is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Our team of seasoned supply chain experts, combined with our robust infrastructure, guarantees efficient and cost-effective shipping solutions. Partner with us today and experience the confidence that comes with a reliable and experienced supply chain leader in the region.
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