HS code 1511.90 covers Palm oil & fractions (refined) — for example refined palm oil, palm olein. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 10%, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.
Worked example: landed cost on R100,000 of goods
| Customs value (CIF) | R100,000 |
| Customs duty (10%) | R10,000 |
| Import VAT (15% on ATV) | R18,000 |
| Estimated landed cost | R128,000 |
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 1511.90 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 1511 is “Palm oil and its fractions; whether or not refined, but not chemically modified”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 1511.10 Vegetable oils; palm oil and its fractions, crude, not chemically modified
- 1511.90 Vegetable oils; palm oil and its fractions, other than crude, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified — this page
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 15 →
Watch HS 1511.90 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 15 — Animal & vegetable fats, oils & waxes
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on palm oil & fractions (refined) in South Africa?
HS code 1511.90 (Palm oil & fractions (refined)) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 10% 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 refined palm oil?
The Harmonised System heading for palm oil & fractions (refined) is 1511.90. 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.