HS code 0902.30 covers Black tea (in packs ≤3 kg) — for example black tea bags, loose-leaf tea. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 400c/kg, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.
Worked example: landed cost on R100,000 of goods
This line is charged by quantity (400c/kg). The specific-duty leg needs the consignment’s quantity in kg, so a R100,000-only example would understate the duty whenever that leg applies. Use the Duty & VAT Calculator with quantity for a full figure.
| Customs value (CIF) | R100,000 |
| Ad-valorem leg only (0%) | R0 |
| Import VAT (15% on ATV, ad-valorem duty only) | R16,500 |
| Floor (quantity unknown) | R116,500 |
VAT is charged on the Added Tax Value (customs value + 10% upliftment for non-SACU imports + duties). Figures exclude clearing, freight and any anti-dumping/safeguard duty. For an exact, all-in figure use the Duty & VAT Calculator.
Where HS 0902.30 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 0902 is “Tea”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 0902.10 Tea, green; (not fermented), in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3kg
- 0902.20 Tea, green; (not fermented), in immediate packings of a content exceeding 3kg
- 0902.30 Tea, black; (fermented) and partly fermented tea, in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3kg — this page
- 0902.40 Tea, black; (fermented) and partly fermented tea, in immediate packings of a content exceeding 3kg
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 09 →
Watch HS 0902.30 for changes
Duty rates, anti-dumping measures and permit rules change by Government Gazette. We’ll email you if this code’s status shifts.
Data current as of 2026-08-06. Indicative general (MFN) rate — real duty can differ at 8-digit level, under trade agreements (SADC, EU-EPA) and by Government Gazette. This is guidance, not a tariff determination under s47(9) of the Customs & Excise Act, 1964. Verify against the current SARS Tariff Book.
More codes in Chapter 09 — Coffee, tea, maté & spices
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on black tea (in packs ≤3 kg) in South Africa?
HS code 0902.30 (Black tea (in packs ≤3 kg)) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 400c/kg in South Africa, plus 15% import VAT charged on the Added Tax Value. Verify the exact rate in the current SARS Tariff Book.
What is the HS code for black tea bags?
The Harmonised System heading for black tea (in packs ≤3 kg) is 0902.30. South Africa uses an 8-digit tariff line based on this heading — confirm the precise 8-digit code in the SARS Tariff Book before importing.