HS code 3209.10 covers Paints (water-based, acrylic) — for example acrylic wall paint, PVA emulsions. 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 3209.10 sits in the tariff
Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 3209 is “Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.
- 3209.10 Paints and varnishes; based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium — this page
- 3209.90 Paints and varnishes; (based on polymers other than acrylic or vinyl), dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium
Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 32 →
Watch HS 3209.10 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 32 — Tanning & dyeing extracts; paints, inks & pigments
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on paints (water-based, acrylic) in South Africa?
HS code 3209.10 (Paints (water-based, acrylic)) 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 acrylic wall paint?
The Harmonised System heading for paints (water-based, acrylic) is 3209.10. 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.