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China has become one of the top sources for imports into the South African market. Here is a guide on key steps for importing Chinese goods into South Africa.
Start A ProjectHere are some of the major products and categories that South Africa imports from China:
Cellphones, telecommunications equipment, computers, home appliances like TVs, washing machines, etc. Huawei and Lenovo have a strong presence.
Industrial machinery, equipment and parts used in mining, construction, manufacturing.
Cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses and other automotive vehicles. Brands like BAIC, GWM, JMC have entered the market.
Plastic materials, packaging, household goods, toys, and synthetic rubber.
Fabrics, finished garments, shoes, clothing accessories at low costs.
Affordable furniture like kitchen sets, bedroom sets,office furniture, mostly mass-produced.
Medical instruments, protective gear like masks, disposable syringes, and other medical accessories.
Fertilizers, pesticides, industrial chemicals, pharmaceutical ingredients.
Iron and steel products like piping, wires, roof sheeting. Also aluminum used in construction.
Affordable shoes and sandals in leather and synthetics.
Most imports from China arrive in South Africa via ocean freight. The ships depart from Chinese ports like Shenzhen or Shanghai and sail towards Durban or Cape Town ports. Air freight is faster but more expensive. These are the primary methods by which goods are transported from China to South Africa, each with its own advantages and considerations.
| Transport Method | Transit Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean Freight | 20-40 дни | Common method using cargo ships from Chinese ports like Shanghai to South African ports like Durban. |
| Авиаперевозки | 3-7 дни | Faster option via cargo planes from major Chinese airports like Shanghai to South African airports. |
| Железнодорожные перевозки | 25-35 дни | Less common, involving trains through multiple countries to reach South Africa from China. |
| Multimodal | Varies | Combination of sea, air, rail, or road transport for efficiency, potentially via nearby African ports. |
| Express Courier | 3-5 дни | Quick door-to-door delivery for smaller parcels using services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS. |
Duties range from 5% to 15% on most Chinese imports to South Africa depending on the product category. Some goods like machinery and electronics often have no duties. VAT at 15% also applies to all imports.
| Duty | Description |
|---|---|
| Customs Duties | Most products subject to duties ranging 0-30% based on product and tariff classification |
| Import VAT | 15% VAT applied on customs value of imported goods |
| Excise Duties | Additional excise taxes on certain products like alcohol, tobacco, fuel |
| Preferential Rates | Reduced duty rates may apply if qualified under trade agreements |
| Free Trade Agreement | No FTA yet between South Africa and China but working towards one |
| Customs Procedures | Importers need EDI registration, submit accurate codes, pay duties promptly |
| Clearing Agents | Recommended for import permits, duty calculation, таможенное оформление |
| Record Keeping | Import documents must be retained in case of customs audit |
Ensuring complete and accurate documentation is essential for customs clearance, duties calculation, and biosecurity compliance when importing into South Africa. Here are the key shipping documents required.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Details goods values, quantities, pricing |
| Packing List | Specifies package contents and weights |
| Bill of Lading | Issued by shipping carrier with freight details |
| Certificate of Origin | Declares manufactured origin of goods |
| Customs Export Declaration | Filed by China customs office |
| Insurance Certificate | Provided by insurer covering cargo |
| Inspection Certificate | Verifies quality, safety standards if conducted |
| Import Permit | Required by South Africa for regulated products |
| Purchase Order | Import order placed by South African company |
| Packing Declaration | Specifies wood packaging materials |
| Other Permits | CITES, sanitary certificates if applicable |
You may need an import permit from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) for certain regulated products like food products, textiles and clothing. Most standard goods can be imported without a permit. Your customs broker will advise if a permit is required.
An import permit may be required to bring restricted products into South Africa and clear customs. It confirms the goods are cleared for import. Applying in advance helps avoid shipment delays.
Let Splygo Sourcing be your trusted partner in importing goods from China to your market. Whether you are a seasoned importer or new to international trade, our comprehensive services cater to your unique requirements.
