HS Code 3215.19

Printing inks

Import duty, VAT & classification for South African importers

General customs duty 0%
Import VAT 15%
HS heading 3215.19
Statistical unit kg

HS code 3215.19 covers Printing inks — for example offset/printing inks. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 0%, 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 (0%)R0
Import VAT (15% on ATV)R16,500
Estimated landed costR116,500

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 3215.19 sits in the tariff

Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 3215 is “Ink; printing, writing or drawing ink and other inks; whether or not concentrated or solid”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.

  • 3215.11 Ink; for printing, black, whether or not concentrated or solid
  • 3215.19 Ink; for printing, other than black, whether or not concentrated or solid — this page
  • 3215.90 Ink; writing, drawing and other inks, n.e.c. in heading no. 3215, whether or not concentrated or solid

Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 32 →

Calculate full landed cost Check anti-dumping & permits Find a clearing agent

Watch HS 3215.19 for changes

Duty rates, anti-dumping measures and permit rules change by Government Gazette. We’ll email you if this code’s status shifts.

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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.

3208.90 Paints & varnishes (solvent-based) 10% duty + 15% VAT 3209.10 Paints (water-based, acrylic) 10% duty + 15% VAT 3214.10 Mastics, fillers & glazing sealants 0% duty + 15% VAT

Frequently asked questions

What is the import duty on printing inks in South Africa?

HS code 3215.19 (Printing inks) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 0% 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 offset/printing inks?

The Harmonised System heading for printing inks is 3215.19. 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.