HS code 1806.31 covers Chocolate in blocks/bars, filled — for example filled chocolate bars & slabs. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 20%, 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 (20%) | R20,000 |
| Import VAT (15% on ATV) | R19,500 |
| Estimated landed cost | R139,500 |
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 1806.31 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 1806 is “Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 1806.10 Cocoa; powder, containing added sugar or other sweetening matter
- 1806.20 Chocolate & other food preparations containing cocoa; in blocks, slabs or bars weighing more than 2kg or in liquid, paste, powder, granular or other bulk form in containers or immediate packings, content exceeding 2kg
- 1806.31 Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa; in blocks, slabs or bars, filled, weighing 2kg or less — this page
- 1806.32 Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa; in blocks, slabs or bars, (not filled), weighing 2kg or less
- 1806.90 Chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa; n.e.c. in chapter 18
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 18 →
Watch HS 1806.31 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on chocolate in blocks/bars, filled in South Africa?
HS code 1806.31 (Chocolate in blocks/bars, filled) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 20% 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 filled chocolate bars & slabs?
The Harmonised System heading for chocolate in blocks/bars, filled is 1806.31. 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.